2003 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Volkswagen Gol
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Gol. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Gol would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Gol. (49 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Gol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 403 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Gol. 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 (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Gol. (71 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Gol. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Gol has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Gol will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1996 Volkswagen Gol | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Gol |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2480 mm |
