2006 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 10 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 429 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.
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, 2006 Opel Astra (151 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Polo |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
