1996 Opel Astra vs. 1977 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 200 kg more than 1977 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, 1996 Opel Astra (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 1977 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
