1973 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (108 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 475 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2012 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volkswagen Passat | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Opel |
| Model | Passat | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2620 mm |
