1974 Nissan Skyline vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Astra (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1974 Nissan Skyline. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 166 kg more than 1974 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Nissan Skyline. (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Nissan Skyline | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Skyline | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
