1972 Fiat 124 vs. 1999 Holden Astra
To start off, 1999 Holden Astra is newer by 27 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Holden Astra weights approximately 184 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 Holden 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, 1999 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124. 1999 Holden Astra has automatic transmission and 1972 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1972 Fiat 124 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 1999 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Holden |
| Model | 124 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2610 mm |
