2003 Opel Astra vs. 1999 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 420 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Opel Astra (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Polo. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1999 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |
