2004 Chevrolet Astro vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 7 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 4,294 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Astro (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 650 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.
Because 2004 Chevrolet Astro is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Chevrolet Astro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Chevrolet Astro (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (285 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Astro | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astro | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4294 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 55 L |
