2008 Opel Astra vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 30 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 635 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, 2008 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Opel Astra | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
Model | Astra | Passat |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |