1998 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1187 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
