1998 Opel Astra vs. 1987 Vauxhall Nova
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Vauxhall Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Vauxhall Nova would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1987 Vauxhall Nova. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1987 Vauxhall Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 380 kg more than 1987 Vauxhall Nova. 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, 1998 Opel Astra (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Vauxhall Nova. (68 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Vauxhall Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 1987 Vauxhall Nova | |
| Make | Opel | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra | Nova |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 68 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2350 mm |
