2004 Vauxhall Astra vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 26 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 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Vauxhall Astra (118 HP @ 3250 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 513 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, 2004 Vauxhall Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Vauxhall Astra | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1393 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
