1967 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 1,390 cc, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 342 kg more than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Because 1967 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 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (127 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sprite | Polo |
| Year Released | 1967 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1390 cc |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3490 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 45 L |
