2003 Opel Astra vs. 1971 Riley 4
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Riley 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Riley 4 would be higher. At 1,622 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Riley 4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1971 Riley 4. (67 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1971 Riley 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 42 kg more than 1971 Riley 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Riley 4 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 1971 Riley 4. 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 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Riley 4. (121 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Riley 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1971 Riley 4 | |
| Make | Opel | Riley |
| Model | Astra | 4 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1622 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 76.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1148 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 45 L |
