2003 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 135 kg more than 2008 Opel 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 2008 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Opel |
| Model | New Beetle | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
