2008 Opel Astra vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 305 kg more than 1998 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, 2008 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
