1997 Opel Astra vs. 1956 Porsche 550 A
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 550 A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 550 A would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Porsche 550 A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Porsche 550 A (108 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Porsche 550 A should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Astra weights approximately 400 kg more than 1956 Porsche 550 A.
Because 1956 Porsche 550 A 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 1956 Porsche 550 A. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Astra | 1956 Porsche 550 A | |
| Make | Opel | Porsche |
| Model | Astra | 550 A |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2110 mm |
