1974 Humber Sceptre vs. 1999 Holden Astra
To start off, 1999 Holden Astra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Humber Sceptre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Humber Sceptre would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Holden Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1974 Humber Sceptre. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Humber Sceptre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Holden Astra weights approximately 154 kg more than 1974 Humber Sceptre. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Humber Sceptre 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 Humber Sceptre. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Holden 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, 1999 Holden Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Humber Sceptre. (123 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1999 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Humber Sceptre.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Humber Sceptre | 1999 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Humber | Holden |
| Model | Sceptre | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 992 kg | 1146 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2610 mm |
