2002 Opel Astra vs. 1973 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2002 Opel Astra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1973 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Astra weights approximately 135 kg more than 1973 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Opel Astra (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Opel Astra | 1973 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2680 mm |
