1972 Fiat 124 vs. 1994 Opel Astra
To start off, 1994 Opel Astra is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Fiat 124 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Fiat 124 (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1994 Opel Astra. (81 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 1994 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Opel Astra weights approximately 109 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124.
Because 1972 Fiat 124 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 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1972 Fiat 124 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Opel Astra. (114 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1972 Fiat 124 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 1994 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 124 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 77.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2620 mm |
