1998 Opel Astra vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 30 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 44 L | 70 L |
