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 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (98 HP) has 39 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP). 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 485 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 (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 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 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 142 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 40 L |
