2003 Opel Astra vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,771 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 52 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 10.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 62 L |
