2003 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (144 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 47 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.9 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
