1998 Opel Speedster vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Speedster (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 279 kg more than 1998 Opel Speedster.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1998 Opel Speedster (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Speedster | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Speedster | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
