1972 Fiat 124 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (142 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 154 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 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, 2003 Opel Astra (204 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (153 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Fiat 124 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
Make | Fiat | Opel |
Model | 124 | Astra |
Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1756 cc | 2198 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 142 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2740 mm |