2008 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 10 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Pathfinder (266 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 1055 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.
Because 2008 Nissan Pathfinder 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 2008 Nissan Pathfinder. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2008 Nissan Pathfinder (391 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2008 Nissan Pathfinder has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Nissan Pathfinder will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Pathfinder | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Pathfinder | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 266 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 391 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2175 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2620 mm |
