1972 Opel Rekord vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,908 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1972 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 328 kg more than 1972 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Opel Rekord 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 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Opel Rekord | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Rekord | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1908 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
