1972 Austin Marina vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Austin Marina would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (144 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1972 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 500 kg more than 1972 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Austin Marina 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 1972 Austin Marina. 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, 2003 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Austin Marina. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1972 Austin Marina has manual transmission. 1972 Austin Marina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Austin Marina | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | Marina | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1273 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2640 mm |
