1998 Opel Astra vs. 1987 Skoda Rapid R
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Skoda Rapid R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Skoda Rapid R would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (85 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1987 Skoda Rapid R. (62 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1987 Skoda Rapid R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 440 kg more than 1987 Skoda Rapid R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Skoda Rapid R 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 1987 Skoda Rapid R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra, 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, 1998 Opel Astra (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Skoda Rapid R. (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Skoda Rapid R.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 1987 Skoda Rapid R | |
| Make | Opel | Skoda |
| Model | Astra | Rapid R |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 44 L | 47 L |
