1998 Opel Astra vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,475 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 38 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (232 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 2475 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
