2003 Opel Astra vs. 1978 Seat 131
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Seat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Seat 131 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (82 HP) has 23 more horse power than 1978 Seat 131. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Seat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 221 kg more than 1978 Seat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Seat 131 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 1978 Seat 131. 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 (185 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Seat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Seat 131. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1978 Seat 131 has manual transmission. 1978 Seat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1978 Seat 131 | |
| Make | Opel | Seat |
| Model | Astra | 131 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2500 mm |
