1991 Opel Astra vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 371 kg more than 1991 Opel 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (104 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1991 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1991 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Opel Astra | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 160 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2470 mm |
