1988 Nissan 300 ZX vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Nissan 300 ZX (171 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2009 Saturn Astra. (136 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Nissan 300 ZX should accelerate faster than 2009 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 180 kg more than 2009 Saturn Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Nissan 300 ZX 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 1988 Nissan 300 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saturn 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, 1988 Nissan 300 ZX (234 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Astra. (125 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 Nissan 300 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Nissan 300 ZX | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Saturn |
| Model | 300 ZX | Astra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2620 mm |
