2008 Saturn Astra vs. 1969 Volvo 1800
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Volvo 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1969 Volvo 1800. (124 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1969 Volvo 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 605 kg more than 1969 Volvo 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Volvo 1800. 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, 2008 Saturn Astra (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Volvo 1800. (167 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Volvo 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Saturn Astra | 1969 Volvo 1800 | |
| Make | Saturn | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 1800 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 45 L |
