2008 Saturn Astra vs. 1974 Ford Capri
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ford Capri would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1974 Ford Capri. (137 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 590 kg more than 1974 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Ford Capri 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 Ford Capri. 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, 1974 Ford Capri (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1974 Ford Capri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra. 1974 Ford Capri 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. 1974 Ford Capri will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Saturn Astra | 1974 Ford Capri | |
| Make | Saturn | Ford |
| Model | Astra | Capri |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
