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 (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 75 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. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 260 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 49 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.
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 | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
