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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (104 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 5600 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 237 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 (175 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (135 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra. 1991 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1991 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Opel Astra | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Top Speed | 173 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.1 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2537 mm |
