1981 Volkswagen Santana vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 240 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 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, 2007 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 2007 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Santana has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Santana will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volkswagen Santana | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Opel |
| Model | Santana | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
