2003 Holden Astra vs. 1973 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 30 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), 2003 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1973 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Astra weights approximately 85 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, 2003 Holden 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 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Astra | 1973 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Holden | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2680 mm |
