2008 Opel Vectra vs. 1981 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Vectra (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 535 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Vectra (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Vectra | 1981 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Vauxhall |
| Model | Vectra | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
