1989 Nissan Santana vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Santana would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Santana. (93 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 661 kg more than 1989 Nissan Santana. 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, 2009 Saturn Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Santana. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Nissan Santana | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Saturn |
| Model | Santana | Astra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1074 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2620 mm |
