1986 Holden Astra vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Holden Astra would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1986 Holden Astra. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 595 kg more than 1986 Holden 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, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Astra. (124 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Astra. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1986 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 1986 Holden Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Holden Astra 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Holden Volkswagen
Model Astra Jetta
Year Released 1986 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1597 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 70 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 124 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 895 kg 1490 kg
Vehicle Length 3970 mm 4557 mm
Vehicle Width 1630 mm 1781 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1504 mm
Wheelbase Size 2420 mm 2578 mm