1986 Holden Astra vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1986 Holden Astra is newer by 5 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 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Holden Astra (70 HP) has 10 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (60 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 250 kg more than 1986 Holden Astra.
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, 1986 Holden 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 Nissan Laurel (123 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Astra. (115 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Holden Astra | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Holden | Nissan |
| Model | Astra | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1486 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 60 HP |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2410 mm |
