1991 Vauxhall Astra vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1991 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Vauxhall Astra (53 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 90 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Volkswagen Beetle is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Vauxhall Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1955 Volkswagen Beetle (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Vauxhall Astra. (84 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1955 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Vauxhall Astra | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |
