1998 Opel Astra vs. 1972 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (74 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 204 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Volkswagen 1600 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 Volkswagen 1600. 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 (167 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 1972 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 40 L |
