1973 Fiat 500 vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra is newer by 18 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 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Opel Astra (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Opel Astra weights approximately 515 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, 1991 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, 1991 Opel Astra (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1991 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 500 | 1991 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 500 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 52 L |
