2003 Opel Astra vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 22 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 158 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Opel Astra | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
Make | Opel | Nissan |
Model | Astra | Laurel |
Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1770 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 97 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 203 Nm | 147 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1140 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2680 mm |