1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 15 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 1,384 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 370 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2011 Opel Astra (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (92 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Opel |
| Model | Passat | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1384 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 52 L |
