2005 Holden Astra vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Holden Astra would be higher. At 3,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2005 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2005 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 206 kg more than 2005 Holden 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 2005 Holden 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 (359 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Holden Astra. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2005 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Holden Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Holden Astra | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 3597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2720 mm |
