1964 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 1,098 cc (4 cylinders), 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 56 kg more than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Because 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. 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 @ 3600 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (84 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1989 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
1964 Austin-Healey Sprite | 1989 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Austin-Healey | Volkswagen |
Model | Sprite | Polo |
Year Released | 1964 | 1989 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1041 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 44 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 84 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 770 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 3660 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2340 mm |