1981 Nissan Skyline vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 175 kg more than 1981 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Skyline | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Skyline | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1908 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
