1976 Dodge Aspen vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,686 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1976 Dodge Aspen. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Dodge Aspen weights approximately 55 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra.
Because 1976 Dodge Aspen 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 1976 Dodge Aspen. 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, 2003 Opel Astra (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Dodge Aspen. (244 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Dodge Aspen.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Dodge Aspen | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Aspen | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3686 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2740 mm |
