1973 Buick Skylark vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 36 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, 1973 Buick Skylark (150 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2009 Opel Astra. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Buick Skylark should accelerate faster than 2009 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Buick Skylark weights approximately 375 kg more than 2009 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 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 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Opel Astra. (176 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1973 Buick Skylark will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Buick Skylark | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Buick | Opel |
| Model | Skylark | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5724 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 52 L |
