1972 Fiat 124 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 33 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 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 389 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, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Astra (281 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (153 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 124 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1756 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2530 mm |
