1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2007 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2007 Opel Astra.
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, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Opel Astra. 2007 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Passat | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Opel |
| Model | Passat | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1362 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
