2003 Opel Astra vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 250 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.
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 (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Opel Astra | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
Model | Astra | Golf |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 174 HP | 73 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75.6 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2520 mm |