2008 Saturn Astra vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Saturn Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Saturn Astra would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 131 kg more than 2008 Saturn Astra.
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 Saturn Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Saturn Astra | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Saturn | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1782 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 55 L |
