1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 14 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 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 70 kg more than 1997 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, 2011 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Opel |
| Model | Golf | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
