2003 Holden Astra vs. 1974 Rover 2000
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Rover 2000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Rover 2000 would be higher. At 1,976 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Rover 2000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1974 Rover 2000. (106 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Rover 2000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Rover 2000 weights approximately 143 kg more than 2003 Holden Astra.
Because 1974 Rover 2000 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 1974 Rover 2000. 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, 1974 Rover 2000 (172 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1974 Rover 2000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Astra | 1974 Rover 2000 | |
| Make | Holden | Rover |
| Model | Astra | 2000 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1976 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2640 mm |
