1971 Nissan Laurel vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,815 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 85 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 305 kg more than 1971 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1971 Nissan Laurel 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 1971 Nissan Laurel. 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, 1971 Nissan Laurel (155 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (139 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1971 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Nissan Laurel | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Laurel | Astra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1815 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 139 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2610 mm |
