2002 Vauxhall Astra vs. 1978 Vauxhall Chevette
To start off, 2002 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Vauxhall Chevette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Vauxhall Chevette would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Vauxhall Astra (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 Vauxhall Chevette. (56 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Vauxhall Chevette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 495 kg more than 1978 Vauxhall Chevette. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Vauxhall Chevette 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 Vauxhall Chevette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Vauxhall 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 Vauxhall Astra (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Vauxhall Chevette. (89 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2002 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Vauxhall Chevette.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Vauxhall Astra | 1978 Vauxhall Chevette | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra | Chevette |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1255 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2400 mm |
