2009 Nissan Micra vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Nissan Micra is newer by 6 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Micra (87 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Micra should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Micra weights approximately 57 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, 2003 Opel Astra (185 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 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 2009 Nissan Micra. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2009 Nissan Micra has manual transmission. 2009 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:
| 2009 Nissan Micra | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Micra | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1386 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 176 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.4 seconds | 15.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 52 L |
