2007 Opel Astra vs. 1974 Volvo 244
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,125 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 244 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (124 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 244. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 244 weights approximately 79 kg more than 2007 Opel Astra.
Because 1974 Volvo 244 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 1974 Volvo 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, both vehicles can yield 170 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Opel Astra | 1974 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 244 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2125 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 60 L |
