1999 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1999 Opel Astra. (88 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 342 kg more than 1999 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Opel Astra | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Passat |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1532 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2712 mm |
