1996 Opel Vectra vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 1122 kg more than 1996 Opel Vectra. 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 Volkswagen Polo (140 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Vectra | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vectra | Polo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
