2009 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1974 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Optra (108 HP) has 42 more horse power than 1974 Opel Rekord. (66 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Optra should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 196 kg more than 1974 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Optra, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Optra (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Optra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Optra | 1974 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Optra | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 66 HP |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2680 mm |
