1997 Opel Astra vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 157 kg more than 1997 Opel Astra. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Astra | 2005 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| 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 | 1307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
