1991 Opel Astra vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 15 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 256 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (104 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Opel Astra | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2510 mm |
