2002 Opel Speedster vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2002 Opel Speedster is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Speedster (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 265 kg more than 2002 Opel Speedster.
Because 2002 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 2002 Opel Speedster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2002 Opel Speedster (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Opel Speedster | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Speedster | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
