2003 Opel Astra vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 418 kg more than 1978 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, 2003 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2480 mm |
