1998 Opel Astra vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 20 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra.
Because 1981 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 1981 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1981 Nissan Laurel (167 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 1981 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Opel Astra | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
Make | Opel | Nissan |
Model | Astra | Laurel |
Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2792 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 127 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1210 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |