1972 Fiat 125 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 125. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 125 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 125. (90 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 125. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 405 kg more than 1972 Fiat 125. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Fiat 125 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 1972 Fiat 125. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (220 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 125. (131 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 125.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 125 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 125 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
