2006 Opel Astra vs. 1973 Volvo 145
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volvo 145 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 21 more horse power than 1973 Volvo 145. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Volvo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 140 kg more than 1973 Volvo 145. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volvo 145 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 1973 Volvo 145. 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 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volvo 145. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volvo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 1973 Volvo 145 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 145 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
