1998 Opel Speedster vs. 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Speedster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Speedster would be higher. At 2,501 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1998 Opel Speedster. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Speedster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 411 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 1998 Opel Speedster 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 1998 Opel Speedster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Speedster. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Speedster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Speedster | 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Speedster | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
