1962 Austin A 40 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (144 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1962 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1962 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 620 kg more than 1962 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Austin A 40 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 1962 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Austin A 40 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 52 L |
