1961 Fiat 850 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1961 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1961 Fiat 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 767 kg more than 1961 Fiat 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Fiat 850 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 1961 Fiat 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Astra (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Fiat 850 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 850 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 613 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3290 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 52 L |
