1991 Opel Astra vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Golf (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 160 kg more than 1991 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, 1981 Volkswagen Golf (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Opel Astra | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
