1994 Opel Astra vs. 2001 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1994 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 1994 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 547 kg more than 1994 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Volkswagen Microbus 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 2001 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 2001 Volkswagen Microbus (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Opel Astra. (168 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Opel Astra | 2001 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Microbus |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1113 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2470 mm |
