1998 Opel Speedster vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Opel Speedster is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volkswagen Golf (157 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 Opel Speedster. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Speedster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 250 kg more than 1998 Opel Speedster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Opel Speedster. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1988 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Speedster. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Speedster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Speedster | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Speedster | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
