1973 Fiat 500 vs. 1987 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1987 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Vauxhall Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 450 kg more than 1973 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Fiat 500 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 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Vauxhall 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, 1987 Vauxhall Astra (180 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1987 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 500 | 1987 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Vauxhall |
| Model | 500 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2530 mm |
