1996 Opel Astra vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 567 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (326 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2003 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Opel Astra | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
Model | Astra | Passat |
Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2495 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 111 Nm | 326 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1572 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |