2002 Opel Astra vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Astra (187 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Astra weights approximately 175 kg more than 2004 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, 2002 Opel Astra (256 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Opel Astra | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
