2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 vs. 1998 Opel Speedster
To start off, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Speedster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Speedster would be higher. At 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 1998 Opel Speedster. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Speedster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 weights approximately 171 kg more than 1998 Opel Speedster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Opel Speedster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500, 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, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 448 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Speedster. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Speedster.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 | 1998 Opel Speedster | |
Make | Ford | Opel |
Model | Shelby GT 500 | Speedster |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 5409 cc | 2198 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 500 HP | 145 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 651 Nm | 203 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 945 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |