1962 NSU Prinz vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 NSU Prinz. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 NSU Prinz would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1962 NSU Prinz. (30 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1962 NSU Prinz. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 828 kg more than 1962 NSU Prinz. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 NSU Prinz. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 NSU Prinz. (42 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 NSU Prinz.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 NSU Prinz | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | NSU | Opel |
| Model | Prinz | Astra |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 581 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 30 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 565 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 52 L |
