1998 Opel Astra vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 10 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 88 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.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 44 L | 55 L |
