1998 Chevrolet Astro vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Astro (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 1145 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Chevrolet Astro (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Astro | 1973 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astro | 1302 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 1191 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2410 mm |
