1986 Nissan Pulsar vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Nissan Pulsar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Nissan Pulsar would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1986 Nissan Pulsar. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1986 Nissan Pulsar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 405 kg more than 1986 Nissan Pulsar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Saturn Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Nissan Pulsar. (97 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Nissan Pulsar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Nissan Pulsar | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Saturn |
| Model | Pulsar | Astra |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1270 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2620 mm |
