2008 Saturn Astra vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Astra. (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 17 kg more than 2008 Saturn Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Saturn Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Saturn Astra | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Saturn | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 55 L |
