1953 Buick 40 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,315 cc (8 cylinders), 1953 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1953 Buick 40 (123 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1953 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 Buick 40 weights approximately 645 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1953 Buick 40 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 1953 Buick 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1953 Buick 40 (304 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (117 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1953 Buick 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

1953 Buick 40 1997 Volkswagen Polo
Make Buick Volkswagen
Model 40 Polo
Year Released 1953 1997
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4315 cc 1390 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 123 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 4700 RPM
Torque 304 Nm 117 Nm
Torque RPM 2200 RPM 2800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Vehicle Weight 1665 kg 1020 kg
Vehicle Width 1950 mm 1650 mm
Wheelbase Size 3090 mm 2410 mm