1998 Opel Astra vs. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 9 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 258 kg more than 1998 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, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2007 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
