1959 NSU Prinz vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 NSU Prinz. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 NSU Prinz would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1959 NSU Prinz. (30 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1959 NSU Prinz. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 821 kg more than 1959 NSU Prinz. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 NSU Prinz 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. 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 (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 NSU Prinz. (43 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 NSU Prinz.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 NSU Prinz | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | NSU | Opel |
| Model | Prinz | Astra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 583 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 30 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 43 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 565 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2740 mm |
