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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 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 370 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 (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 50 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 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 141 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 40 L |
