1997 Opel Astra vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (67 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 275 kg more than 1997 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 (133 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Astra | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
