1971 Morris Minor vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Morris Minor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Morris Minor would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (84 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1971 Morris Minor. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1971 Morris Minor. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 381 kg more than 1971 Morris Minor. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Morris Minor is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Morris Minor. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Opel Astra (138 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Morris Minor. (81 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Morris Minor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Morris Minor | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Morris | Opel |
| Model | Minor | Astra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2190 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 52 L |
