2009 Opel Astra vs. 1972 Holden Torana
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Holden Torana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Holden Torana would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1972 Holden Torana. (79 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Holden Torana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 695 kg more than 1972 Holden Torana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Holden Torana 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 1972 Holden Torana. 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, 2009 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Holden Torana. (131 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Holden Torana. 1972 Holden Torana has automatic transmission and 2009 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2009 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Holden Torana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Opel Astra | 1972 Holden Torana | |
| Make | Opel | Holden |
| Model | Astra | Torana |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
