1991 Opel Astra vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 201 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (195 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (168 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
