1973 Ford Fairlane vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Ford Fairlane (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 215 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Ford Fairlane 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 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 Ford Fairlane (339 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1973 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ford Fairlane | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Fairlane | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4097 cc | 1795 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2740 mm |
