1979 Nissan Laurel vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1979 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 253 kg more than 1979 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Nissan 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 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Nissan Laurel. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Nissan Laurel | 2012 Opel Astra | |
Make | Nissan | Opel |
Model | Laurel | Astra |
Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1910 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 97 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1393 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |