1998 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 13 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 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 18 kg more than 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Polo (180 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Polo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
