1946 Austin 16 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1946 Austin 16. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1946 Austin 16 would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1946 Austin 16 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1946 Austin 16 (63 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1946 Austin 16 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1946 Austin 16 weights approximately 580 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1946 Austin 16 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 1946 Austin 16. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1946 Austin 16 (146 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1946 Austin 16 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1946 Austin 16 | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | 16 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1946 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
