1978 Opel Rekord vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (64 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Rekord weights approximately 30 kg more than 2007 Opel Astra.
Because 1978 Opel Rekord 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 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (126 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord. 2007 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1978 Opel Rekord has manual transmission. 1978 Opel Rekord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Rekord | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Rekord | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
