2005 Opel Astra vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 8 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 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (153 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 8 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, 2005 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2197 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
