1981 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (96 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 156 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Nissan Laurel. 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, 2006 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Nissan Laurel | 2006 Opel Astra | |
Make | Nissan | Opel |
Model | Laurel | Astra |
Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 96 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 1284 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |