2003 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Maxima is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 308 kg more than 2003 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, 2011 Nissan Maxima (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 2011 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Opel | Nissan |
| Model | Astra | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.5 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.6 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 76 L |
