1972 Chevrolet Biscayne vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Biscayne. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Biscayne would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Biscayne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (239 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Biscayne. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Chevrolet Biscayne. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Chevrolet Biscayne weights approximately 414 kg more than 2012 Opel Astra.
Because 1972 Chevrolet Biscayne 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 Chevrolet Biscayne. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Chevrolet Biscayne. (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Chevrolet Biscayne.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Biscayne | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Biscayne | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4097 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1807 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5590 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 52 L |
