2003 Chevrolet Astro vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 4,292 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Astro (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 619 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Chevrolet Astro is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Chevrolet Astro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Astro (339 Nm) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2003 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Astro | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astro | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4292 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 102 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 55 L |
