1998 Opel Astra vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 10 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 34 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Polo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
