1973 Buick Skylark vs. 2008 Opel Astra

To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Buick Skylark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Buick Skylark would be higher. At 5,724 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1973 Buick Skylark. (150 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Buick Skylark weights approximately 220 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.

Because 1973 Buick Skylark 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 1973 Buick Skylark. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1973 Buick Skylark (366 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1973 Buick Skylark will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.

Compare all specifications:

1973 Buick Skylark 2008 Opel Astra
Make Buick Opel
Model Skylark Astra
Year Released 1973 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5724 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 150 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 366 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 1950 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1605 kg 1385 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4260 mm
Vehicle Width 1960 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2960 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 52 L