1989 Nissan Laurel vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,809 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 15 kg more than 1989 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Astra (173 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (142 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Nissan Laurel | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Laurel | Astra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1809 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2610 mm |
