1998 Opel Speedster vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 15 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1998 Opel Speedster. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Speedster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 388 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Speedster. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Speedster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Speedster | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Speedster | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
