2003 Opel Speedster vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Speedster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Speedster would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2003 Opel Speedster. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Speedster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 396 kg more than 2003 Opel Speedster. 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Speedster. (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Speedster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Speedster | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Speedster | GTI |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 6.5 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.9 L/100km | 10.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 55 L |
