2008 Saturn Astra vs. 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk would be higher. At 3,050 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk weights approximately 65 kg more than 2008 Saturn Astra.
Because 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk 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 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saturn 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, 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk (206 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra. 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk has automatic transmission and 2008 Saturn Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Saturn Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Saturn Astra | 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk | |
| Make | Saturn | Studebaker |
| Model | Astra | Silver Hawk |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 3050 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 7.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 5190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3070 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 68 L |
