2012 Opel Astra vs. 1980 Honda Ballade
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (197 HP) has 123 more horse power than 1980 Honda Ballade. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1980 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 810 kg more than 1980 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Honda Ballade. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Honda Ballade. 1980 Honda Ballade has automatic transmission and 2012 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2012 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Honda Ballade will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Opel Astra | 1980 Honda Ballade | |
| Make | Opel | Honda |
| Model | Astra | Ballade |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2330 mm |
