1998 Opel Astra vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 1 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 26 kg more than 1998 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1226 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
