1972 Chevrolet Chevelle vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle would be higher. At 5,011 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle weights approximately 233 kg more than 2009 Saturn Astra.
Because 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle 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 Chevelle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saturn 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, 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle (312 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saturn |
| Model | Chevelle | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5011 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 45 L |
