1998 Opel Astra vs. 1962 Simca 1000
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Simca 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Simca 1000 would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1962 Simca 1000. (51 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1962 Simca 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 418 kg more than 1962 Simca 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Simca 1000 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 1962 Simca 1000. 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 (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Simca 1000. (73 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Simca 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 1962 Simca 1000 | |
| Make | Opel | Simca |
| Model | Astra | 1000 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 944 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 73 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 68 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 65 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 732 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2230 mm |
