2003 Opel Astra vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (75 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (50 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 630 kg more than 1979 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, 2003 Opel Astra (171 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 50 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 45 L |
