2009 Opel Astra vs. 1981 Vauxhall Chevette
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Chevette 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 141 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (56 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 531 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Vauxhall Chevette 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 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. 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 @ 4200 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (89 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Opel Astra | 1981 Vauxhall Chevette | |
| Make | Opel | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra | Chevette |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1256 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 45 L |
