2008 Opel Astra vs. 1972 Plymouth Barracuda
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Plymouth Barracuda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Plymouth Barracuda would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Plymouth Barracuda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Plymouth Barracuda (110 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Plymouth Barracuda should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Plymouth Barracuda weights approximately 180 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Plymouth Barracuda 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 1972 Plymouth Barracuda. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1972 Plymouth Barracuda (251 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Plymouth Barracuda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1972 Plymouth Barracuda | |
| Make | Opel | Plymouth |
| Model | Astra | Barracuda |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1363 cc | 3687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.6 mm | 104.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
