1973 Opel Rekord vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1973 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 279 kg more than 1973 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Opel Rekord 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 Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saturn 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, 2009 Saturn Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Opel Rekord | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
Make | Opel | Saturn |
Model | Rekord | Astra |
Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 66 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 120 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1344 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4340 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |