1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1999 Holden Astra
To start off, 1999 Holden Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1999 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1999 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 115 kg more than 1999 Holden 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 1999 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Holden |
| Model | Golf | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
