2009 Opel Astra vs. 1983 Pontiac 1000
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Pontiac 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Pontiac 1000 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (139 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1983 Pontiac 1000. (64 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1983 Pontiac 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 665 kg more than 1983 Pontiac 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Pontiac 1000 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 1983 Pontiac 1000. 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 (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Pontiac 1000. (109 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Pontiac 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Opel Astra | 1983 Pontiac 1000 | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | 1000 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2400 mm |
