1996 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 16 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 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 140 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.5 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
