1974 Seat 131 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 Seat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Seat 131 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1974 Seat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Seat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Holden Astra weights approximately 185 kg more than 1974 Seat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Seat 131 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 Seat 131. 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 (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Seat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Seat 131. 1999 Holden Astra has automatic transmission and 1974 Seat 131 has manual transmission. 1974 Seat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Seat 131 | 1999 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Seat | Holden |
| Model | 131 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2610 mm |
