1989 Vauxhall Astra vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. (53 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 1477 kg more than 1989 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. (85 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Vauxhall Astra | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2510 mm |
