1959 NSU Prinz I vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 NSU Prinz I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 NSU Prinz I would be higher. At 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (153 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1959 NSU Prinz I. (20 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1959 NSU Prinz I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 782 kg more than 1959 NSU Prinz I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 NSU Prinz I 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 1959 NSU Prinz I. 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 (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 NSU Prinz I. (41 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 NSU Prinz I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 NSU Prinz I | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | NSU | Opel |
| Model | Prinz I | Astra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 583 cc | 2197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 41 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 109 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 516 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3150 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 44 L | 52 L |
