1979 Ford Capri vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Capri would be higher. At 2,294 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1979 Ford Capri. (112 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 296 kg more than 1979 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Ford Capri 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 1979 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Capri. (176 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Capri | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Capri | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2294 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 52 L |
