2005 Opel Astra vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 35 kg more than 2005 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
