1996 Opel Astra vs. 1955 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Astra (74 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1955 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1955 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 290 kg more than 1955 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1996 Opel Astra (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 1955 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Opel | Wartburg |
| Model | Astra | 311 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 73.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78 mm |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2460 mm |
