1998 Opel Astra vs. 1972 Toyota Publica
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Toyota Publica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Toyota Publica 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 36 more horse power than 1972 Toyota Publica. (38 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Toyota Publica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 445 kg more than 1972 Toyota Publica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Toyota Publica 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 1972 Toyota Publica. 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 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Toyota Publica. (62 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Toyota Publica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 1972 Toyota Publica | |
| Make | Opel | Toyota |
| Model | Astra | Publica |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2170 mm |
