1996 Opel Astra vs. 1966 Simca 1200S
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Simca 1200S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Simca 1200S would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1966 Simca 1200S. (79 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1966 Simca 1200S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 295 kg more than 1966 Simca 1200S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Simca 1200S 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 1966 Simca 1200S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Opel Astra (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Simca 1200S. (106 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Simca 1200S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 1966 Simca 1200S | |
| Make | Opel | Simca |
| Model | Astra | 1200S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1204 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.7 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2240 mm |
