1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 4,269 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass (108 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 715 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass (279 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Opel |
| Model | Cutlass | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4269 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2640 mm |
