1972 Ford GT 40 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford GT 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford GT 40 would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford GT 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford GT 40 (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (149 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford GT 40 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 555 kg more than 1972 Ford GT 40.
Because 1972 Ford GT 40 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 Ford GT 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (320 Nm) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford GT 40. (85 Nm). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford GT 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford GT 40 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | GT 40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.9 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 980 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 125 L | 52 L |
