1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun Laurel (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 12 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Because 1979 Datsun 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 1979 Datsun Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1979 Datsun Laurel (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Datsun | Opel |
| Model | Laurel | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
