2001 Vauxhall Astra vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2001 Vauxhall Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2001 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Vauxhall Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Vauxhall Astra. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 2001 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 2001 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Vauxhall Astra | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
