1979 Vauxhall Astra vs. 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning (236 HP) has 162 more horse power than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning should accelerate faster than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning weights approximately 463 kg more than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning 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 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Vauxhall 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, 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning (305 Nm) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. (101 Nm). This means 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Vauxhall Astra | 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra | VX Lightning |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 236 HP |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2420 mm |
