2003 Chevrolet Astro vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 6 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 4,292 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Astro (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 775 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.
Because 2003 Chevrolet Astro 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 2003 Chevrolet Astro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2003 Chevrolet Astro (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Astro | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astro | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4292 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 55 L |
