1996 Opel Astra vs. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 14 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 315 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, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (128 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2010 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4554 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1458 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |
