1984 Vauxhall Astra vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (158 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 519 kg more than 1984 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. (89 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1984 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 1984 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Vauxhall Astra | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1359 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2537 mm |
