1996 Opel Astra vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 11 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (198 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 350 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, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
