1997 Rover 400 vs. 1980 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1997 Rover 400 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,396 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Rover 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Rover 400 (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Rover 400 should accelerate faster than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Rover 400 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Rover 400 (182 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. (102 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Rover 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Rover 400 | 1980 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Rover | Vauxhall |
| Model | 400 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
