1979 Ford Cortina vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1979 Ford Cortina. (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 515 kg more than 1979 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Ford Cortina 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 Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Cortina. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Ford Cortina | 2008 Opel Astra | |
Make | Ford | Opel |
Model | Cortina | Astra |
Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 92 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1515 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2030 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1840 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 52 L |