1996 Opel Astra vs. 2010 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 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, 2010 Volkswagen Golf (84 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 79 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, 2010 Volkswagen Golf (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (128 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2010 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 | 2010 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1229 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |
