1998 Nissan Maxima vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1998 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1998 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 53 kg more than 1998 Nissan Maxima. 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 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Nissan Maxima | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Maxima | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
