2008 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 137 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4771 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 70 L |
