2008 Nissan Micra vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Nissan Micra is newer by 5 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 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 58 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Micra. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 254 kg more than 2008 Nissan Micra. 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, 2003 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Micra. (128 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Micra. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Micra has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Micra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Micra | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Micra | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1386 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 172 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1044 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.3 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 52 L |
