2003 Opel Astra vs. 1956 Peugeot 203
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Peugeot 203. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Peugeot 203 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1956 Peugeot 203. (44 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1956 Peugeot 203. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 135 kg more than 1956 Peugeot 203. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Peugeot 203 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 1956 Peugeot 203. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Astra (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Peugeot 203. (77 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Peugeot 203.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1956 Peugeot 203 | |
| Make | Opel | Peugeot |
| Model | Astra | 203 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 50 L |
