2006 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 157 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
