1987 Vauxhall Astra vs. 1976 Vauxhall Chevette
To start off, 1987 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Vauxhall Chevette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Vauxhall Chevette 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 67 more horse power than 1976 Vauxhall Chevette. (56 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Vauxhall Chevette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 105 kg more than 1976 Vauxhall Chevette. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Vauxhall Chevette 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 1976 Vauxhall Chevette. 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 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Vauxhall Chevette. (89 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1987 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Vauxhall Chevette.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Vauxhall Astra | 1976 Vauxhall Chevette | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra | Chevette |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1256 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2400 mm |
