1985 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (139 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 585 kg more than 1985 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 (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volkswagen Passat | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Opel |
| Model | Passat | Astra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2620 mm |
