2006 Isuzu Ascender vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2006 Isuzu Ascender is newer by 25 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 4,195 cc, 2006 Isuzu Ascender is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Isuzu Ascender (291 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 238 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Isuzu Ascender should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Because 2006 Isuzu Ascender is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Isuzu Ascender 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, 2006 Isuzu Ascender (376 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2006 Isuzu Ascender will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 2006 Isuzu Ascender has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Santana has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Santana will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Isuzu Ascender will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Isuzu Ascender | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ascender | Santana |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1588 cc |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 376 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 102 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 60 L |
