1973 Nissan Skyline vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,909 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (99 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Skyline. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 455 kg more than 1973 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Nissan Skyline 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 1973 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (260 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Skyline. (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Nissan Skyline | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Skyline | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1909 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
