1968 NSU 1000 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 NSU 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 NSU 1000 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1968 NSU 1000. (70 HP @ 6150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1968 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 598 kg more than 1968 NSU 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 NSU 1000 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 1968 NSU 1000. 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 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 NSU 1000. (83 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 NSU 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 NSU 1000 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | NSU | Opel |
| Model | 1000 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 996 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.6 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 52 L |
