1973 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (91 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 400 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chrysler Valiant 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 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chrysler Valiant | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | Valiant | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1439 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2620 mm |
