1996 Opel Astra vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (60 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 10 kg more than 1996 Opel 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, both vehicles can yield 125 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Polo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.7 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2590 mm |
