2003 Opel Speedster vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Opel Speedster is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Speedster (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Speedster weights approximately 50 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 Volkswagen Polo, 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 (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Speedster | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Speedster | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2410 mm |
