1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 219 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass (380 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Opel |
| Model | Cutlass | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 1796 cc |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2620 mm |
