1997 Chevrolet Astro vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Astro (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 385 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Astro will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1997 Chevrolet Astro has manual transmission. 1997 Chevrolet Astro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Astro | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astro | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
