2003 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1981 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 237 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 1314 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Chevrolet SSR 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 2003 Chevrolet SSR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 361 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. 2003 Chevrolet SSR has automatic transmission and 1981 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 1981 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet SSR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet SSR | 1981 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Vauxhall |
| Model | SSR | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5316 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 449 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2154 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2520 mm |
