2008 Opel Astra vs. 1985 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1985 Opel Rekord. (90 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1985 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 210 kg more than 1985 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 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 (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Rekord. (143 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1985 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
