1991 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 21 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 250 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (168 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Opel Astra | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
