2003 Holden Astra vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volkswagen Golf (157 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2003 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 45 kg more than 2003 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Holden Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1988 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Astra | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2490 mm |
