1996 Opel Astra vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Astra (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 205 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1996 Opel Astra (128 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (85 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 48 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
