1996 Opel Astra vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 74 kg more than 1996 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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (128 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
