2005 Morgan 44 vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Morgan 44 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,790 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Morgan 44 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Morgan 44 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Morgan 44 should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Astra weights approximately 25 kg more than 2005 Morgan 44.
Because 2005 Morgan 44 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 2005 Morgan 44. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2005 Morgan 44 (160 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Morgan 44 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Morgan 44 | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Morgan | Opel |
| Model | 44 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1790 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
