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 1,979 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (198 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 526 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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 (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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 | 1979 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1244 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
