2003 Opel Astra vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (142 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 257 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (270 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (204 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 62 L |
