1989 Skoda Rapid R vs. 2001 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2001 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Skoda Rapid R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Skoda Rapid R would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Vauxhall Astra (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1989 Skoda Rapid R. (62 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1989 Skoda Rapid R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 500 kg more than 1989 Skoda Rapid R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Skoda Rapid R 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 1989 Skoda Rapid R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Vauxhall Astra (151 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Skoda Rapid R. (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM). This means 2001 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Skoda Rapid R.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Skoda Rapid R | 2001 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Skoda | Vauxhall |
| Model | Rapid R | Astra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2850 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
