2005 Opel Astra vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 7 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 126 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra. 1998 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 1290 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
