I have 1998 vw cabrio just did a tune up runs great in idle put in drive car dies at 20mph can get car to 45 mph but very slowly why?

check that the wires are in the correct places. (google search the correct firing order/wire locations)
Check spark plug gap.

You better check the plug wire installation, I think you got it wrong.

There should be a vacuum line to your tranny that's not sealed right, check that out

Thanks, Terry

you have a possible vacuum leak somewhere or maybe clogged egr

The symptoms you describe are consistent with a mass airflow problems. Take note that the 1998/2002 Accords do not have a MAF (mass airflow sensor) but rather, a MAP sensor. Take this unit out and clean it with electrical circuit spray cleaner. Its best NOT to wipe the sensor dry after cleaning, because the liquid will evaporate by itself, and you will reduce the possibility of damaging the delicate printed circuits.
After cleaning and reinstalling, disconnect the negative terminal of the battery, so that the computer (ECM) resets itself and gathers the new readings from the sensor to adjust the mixture. IF the sensor has failed, and need to be replaced, the check engine light should be on.

It sounds like you might have a clogged catalatic converter on the exhaust system.

Have you checked that the noise is not tyre noise?
Interchange the wheels front to rear (or left to right) to see if it has any effect on the noise.

Only do the test below if the car is securely chocked so as not to move, take great care not to contact moving parts!
Securely jack both the car drivewheels off the ground, then 'drive' the vehicle through through the problem drive speed/gears while listening for the noise. If the noise occurs under these circumstances you may be able to further localise the source by listening (very carefully!)with a short hose pipe held to the ear.

To keep it simple first, try replacing the fuel filter. They have a average life of around 30,000 to 40,000 miles or one year. you can pick one up at Auto Zone and they can give you the step by step instructions to get the job done with common tools and you can also have the car scanned there for any DTC codes and it's free of charge. Keep me posted, be glad to help you getting your car running 100% again. 

It sounds like your car needs a good solid tune up. It sounds like the injectors are fighting to get fuel so the slower you go the chances of you stalling is even greater. And the faster you go the fuel system is just getting just enough fuel that the car needs to keep running.....I hate to say this but it sounds like you need a tune up.

check your timeing belt frist . then check your fuel pump.and check your fuelter then check your fuese. 9 time out of 10 when a car die on you while driving its your timeing belt