1987 Vauxhall Astra vs. 1974 Vauxhall Firenza
To start off, 1987 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Vauxhall Firenza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Vauxhall Firenza would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Vauxhall Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1974 Vauxhall Firenza. (77 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Vauxhall Firenza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 20 kg more than 1974 Vauxhall Firenza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Vauxhall Firenza 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 1974 Vauxhall Firenza. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1987 Vauxhall Astra (180 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Vauxhall Firenza. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Vauxhall Firenza.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Vauxhall Astra | 1974 Vauxhall Firenza | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra | Firenza |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1759 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 77 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2470 mm |
