1985 Nissan Skyline vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1985 Nissan Skyline. (93 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1985 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 360 kg more than 1985 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Astra (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Nissan Skyline. (149 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Nissan Skyline | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Skyline | Astra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1809 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2740 mm |
