2005 Opel Astra vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 126 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 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, 2005 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Santana |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 149 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1181 kg | 1055 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 60 L |
