2009 Saturn Astra vs. 1949 Simca 8
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 60 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Simca 8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Simca 8 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1949 Simca 8. (49 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1949 Simca 8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 394 kg more than 1949 Simca 8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 Simca 8 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 1949 Simca 8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saturn 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 Saturn Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Simca 8. (88 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Simca 8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Saturn Astra | 1949 Simca 8 | |
| Make | Saturn | Simca |
| Model | Astra | 8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1949 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1220 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 6.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
