1980 Nissan Skyline vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Skyline. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 192 kg more than 1980 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Nissan Skyline. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Nissan Skyline | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Skyline | Astra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2740 mm |
