1998 Opel Astra vs. 1961 Simca Ariane
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Simca Ariane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Simca Ariane would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1961 Simca Ariane. (62 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1961 Simca Ariane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 20 kg more than 1961 Simca Ariane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Simca Ariane 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 1961 Simca Ariane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Opel Astra (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Simca Ariane. (90 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Simca Ariane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 1961 Simca Ariane | |
| Make | Opel | Simca |
| Model | Astra | Ariane |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2700 mm |
