1982 Vauxhall Astra vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1982 Vauxhall Astra. (53 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1982 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 311 kg more than 1982 Vauxhall 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Vauxhall Astra. (96 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Vauxhall Astra | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
