2005 Opel Astra vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,795 cc, 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 495 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra, 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, 2005 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1192 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 64 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4070 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |
