2008 Opel Astra vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (108 HP @ 4150 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 10 kg more than 1997 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 (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (235 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
