2009 Saturn Astra vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (138 HP) has 85 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 905 kg more than 1989 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, 2009 Saturn Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Saturn Astra | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Saturn | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
