1991 Opel Astra vs. 1974 Toyota Carina
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Toyota Carina would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Opel Astra (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1974 Toyota Carina. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Toyota Carina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Opel Astra weights approximately 80 kg more than 1974 Toyota Carina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Toyota Carina 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 Toyota Carina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Opel 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, both vehicles can yield 135 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Opel Astra | 1974 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Opel | Toyota |
| Model | Astra | Carina |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2430 mm |
