2005 Opel Astra vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 385 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2005 Opel Astra (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.4 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2410 mm |
