1978 Buick Regal vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Regal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Regal would be higher. At 3,214 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1978 Buick Regal. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Regal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 195 kg more than 1978 Buick Regal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Buick Regal 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 1978 Buick Regal. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Regal. (218 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Regal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Buick Regal | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Buick | Opel |
| Model | Regal | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3214 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2620 mm |
