1973 NSU 1000 vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 NSU 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 NSU 1000 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (138 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1973 NSU 1000. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 618 kg more than 1973 NSU 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 NSU 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Opel Astra (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 NSU 1000. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 NSU 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 NSU 1000 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | NSU | Opel |
| Model | 1000 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 996 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2620 mm |
