1996 Nissan Maxima vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2002 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2002 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 151 kg more than 2002 Opel Astra. 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, 1996 Nissan Maxima (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Nissan Maxima | 2002 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Maxima | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
