1981 Buick LeSabre vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 5,736 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1981 Buick LeSabre. (105 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 285 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra.
Because 1981 Buick LeSabre 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 1981 Buick LeSabre. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1981 Buick LeSabre (274 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1981 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Buick LeSabre | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Buick | Opel |
| Model | LeSabre | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 274 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
