1997 Opel Astra vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Astra weights approximately 270 kg more than 1978 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, 1997 Opel Astra (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Opel Astra | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
Model | Astra | Passat |
Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 125 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |