1954 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volkswagen Polo (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 34 kg more than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Volkswagen Polo (95 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm). This means 1989 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Volkswagen Beetle | 1989 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beetle | Polo |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 774 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2340 mm |
