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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4500 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 95 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 (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (167 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. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1686 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1265 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |