2004 Opel Astra vs. 1977 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (125 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1977 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1977 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 185 kg more than 1977 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Nissan Laurel. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Nissan Laurel. 1977 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 2004 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2004 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Astra | 1977 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Opel | Nissan |
| Model | Astra | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2680 mm |
