1998 Fiat Barchetta vs. 2004 Opel Speedster
To start off, 2004 Opel Speedster is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Fiat Barchetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Fiat Barchetta would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Speedster (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1998 Fiat Barchetta. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 1998 Fiat Barchetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Fiat Barchetta weights approximately 55 kg more than 2004 Opel Speedster.
Because 2004 Opel Speedster is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Opel Speedster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Fiat Barchetta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Opel Speedster (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Fiat Barchetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Fiat Barchetta | 2004 Opel Speedster | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | Barchetta | Speedster |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2340 mm |
