2003 Opel Astra vs. 1983 Skoda Rapid R
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Skoda Rapid R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Skoda Rapid R 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 27 more horse power than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. (62 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 340 kg more than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Skoda Rapid R 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 1983 Skoda Rapid R. 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 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Skoda Rapid R.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1983 Skoda Rapid R | |
| Make | Opel | Skoda |
| Model | Astra | Rapid R |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 47 L |
