1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 200 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra.
Because 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass (381 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 2003 Opel Astra | |
Make | Oldsmobile | Opel |
Model | Cutlass | Astra |
Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5736 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 174 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 381 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 103.1 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 86 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1410 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2740 mm |