1998 Opel Astra vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (81 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 65 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Polo.
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, 1998 Opel Astra (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. (127 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2005 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Polo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1390 cc |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1055 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
