2001 Opel Astra vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2001 Opel Astra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Astra weights approximately 410 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2001 Opel Astra (170 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm). This means 2001 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Astra | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 60 L |
