1996 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 293 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2012 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Polo | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Opel |
| Model | Polo | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
