1966 Datsun 1000 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Datsun 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Datsun 1000 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Polo (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1966 Datsun 1000. (61 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1966 Datsun 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 530 kg more than 1966 Datsun 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Datsun 1000 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 1966 Datsun 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Polo (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Datsun 1000. (84 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Datsun 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Datsun 1000 | 2003 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1000 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2470 mm |
