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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 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 42 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 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 | 1596 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1120 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
