2003 Opel Speedster vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2003 Opel Speedster is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Speedster (145 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (73 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 14 kg more than 2003 Opel Speedster.
Because 2003 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 2003 Opel Speedster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2003 Opel Speedster (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Speedster | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Speedster | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 876 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 40 L |
