2004 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (125 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 55 kg more than 2004 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Astra | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.4 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
