2001 Opel Astra vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,998 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Astra (437 HP @ 7350 RPM) has 240 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 186 kg more than 2001 Opel Astra.
Because 2001 Opel Astra is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Opel Astra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Opel Astra (531 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Astra | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3998 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 437 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7350 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 531 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
