1999 Opel Astra vs. 1978 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1999 Opel Astra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,978 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Opel Rekord (100 HP) has 12 more horse power than 1999 Opel Astra. (88 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Astra weights approximately 70 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord.
Because 1978 Opel Rekord 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 1978 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1978 Opel Rekord (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Opel Rekord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Opel Astra | 1978 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
