2003 Opel Astra vs. 1958 Peugeot 203
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Peugeot 203. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Peugeot 203 would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1958 Peugeot 203. (44 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1958 Peugeot 203. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 70 kg more than 1958 Peugeot 203. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 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 1958 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 (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Peugeot 203. (78 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Peugeot 203.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1958 Peugeot 203 | |
| Make | Opel | Peugeot |
| Model | Astra | 203 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 78 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 50 L |
