2008 Opel Astra vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 11 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 1,909 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (99 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 104 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2008 Opel Astra (260 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (195 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
