1976 Nissan 260 ZX vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Nissan 260 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Nissan 260 ZX would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Nissan 260 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (136 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1976 Nissan 260 ZX. (124 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Nissan 260 ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 116 kg more than 1976 Nissan 260 ZX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Nissan 260 ZX 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 1976 Nissan 260 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saturn 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, 1976 Nissan 260 ZX (189 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Astra. (125 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1976 Nissan 260 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Nissan 260 ZX | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Saturn |
| Model | 260 ZX | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2620 mm |
