1990 Nissan Micra vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Nissan Micra 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 90 more horse power than 1990 Nissan Micra. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1990 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 619 kg more than 1990 Nissan Micra. 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 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Nissan Micra. (73 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Nissan Micra | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Saturn |
| Model | Micra | Astra |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 666 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2620 mm |
