1989 Nissan Laurel vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 19 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 2,823 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (178 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (93 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 75 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, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (176 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Laurel | Astra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2823 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
