1988 Holden Barina vs. 1979 Vauxhall Astra

To start off, 1988 Holden Barina is newer by 9 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 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Holden Barina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Vauxhall Astra (74 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1988 Holden Barina. (67 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1988 Holden Barina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 125 kg more than 1988 Holden Barina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1988 Holden Barina (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 Holden Barina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. 1979 Vauxhall Astra has automatic transmission and 1988 Holden Barina has manual transmission. 1988 Holden Barina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Vauxhall Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Holden Barina 1979 Vauxhall Astra
Make Holden Vauxhall
Model Barina Astra
Year Released 1988 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1324 cc 1296 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 67 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 104 Nm 101 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 3800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 730 kg 855 kg
Vehicle Length 3780 mm 4010 mm
Vehicle Width 1550 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2250 mm 2520 mm