1974 Fiat 500 vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 Opel Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Astra weights approximately 834 kg more than 1974 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Opel Astra (170 Nm) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 500. (27 Nm). This means 2001 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 500 | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 500 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 516 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 58 L |
