2006 Opel Astra vs. 1959 Porsche 356
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 446 kg more than 1959 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Porsche 356 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 1959 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 1959 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Opel | Porsche |
| Model | Astra | 356 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 838 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 52 L |
