1983 Vauxhall Astra vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1983 Vauxhall Astra. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1983 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 450 kg more than 1983 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Vauxhall Astra. (148 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Vauxhall Astra | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1350 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 |
