2008 Opel Astra vs. 1972 Volvo 1800
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volvo 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Volvo 1800 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Volvo 1800 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volvo 1800 weights approximately 80 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 Volvo 1800 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 Volvo 1800. 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 Volvo 1800 (176 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1972 Volvo 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1972 Volvo 1800 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 1800 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2460 mm |
