2002 Nissan Maxima vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Nissan Maxima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 125 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 Opel Astra (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Maxima | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Maxima | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2620 mm |
