1995 Opel Astra vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1995 Opel Astra is newer by 14 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Opel Astra (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Opel Astra weights approximately 20 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1995 Opel Astra (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1995 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Opel Astra | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
