1973 Opel Manta vs. 1998 Saturn SC
To start off, 1998 Saturn SC is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Manta would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saturn SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Saturn SC (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1973 Opel Manta. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Saturn SC should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Manta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Saturn SC weights approximately 115 kg more than 1973 Opel Manta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Opel Manta 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 Opel Manta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Saturn SC, 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, 1998 Saturn SC (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Manta. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Saturn SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Manta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Opel Manta | 1998 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Opel | Saturn |
| Model | Manta | SC |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2610 mm |
