2009 Opel Astra vs. 1968 Rover 2000
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Rover 2000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Rover 2000 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Rover 2000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1968 Rover 2000. (142 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1968 Rover 2000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 295 kg more than 1968 Rover 2000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Rover 2000 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 1968 Rover 2000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Opel 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, 1968 Rover 2000 (272 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1968 Rover 2000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Opel Astra | 1968 Rover 2000 | |
| Make | Opel | Rover |
| Model | Astra | 2000 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3532 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2640 mm |
