1996 Opel Astra vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 47 kg more than 1996 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, both vehicles can yield 165 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
