2003 Holden Astra vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2003 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 15 kg more than 2003 Holden 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Astra | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2860 mm |
