2008 Opel Astra vs. 1974 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1974 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 165 kg more than 1974 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Opel Rekord 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 Opel Rekord. 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, 2008 Opel Astra (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1974 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1363 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
