1972 Fiat 124 vs. 2003 Holden Astra
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 31 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), 2003 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Astra (120 HP) has 61 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Astra weights approximately 240 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, 2003 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, 2003 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124. 2003 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. 2003 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 2003 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Holden |
| Model | 124 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 120 HP |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2610 mm |
