1970 Datsun 1200 vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Datsun 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Datsun 1200 would be higher. At 1,270 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Datsun 1200 (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Datsun 1200 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 145 kg more than 1970 Datsun 1200.
Because 1970 Datsun 1200 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 1970 Datsun 1200. 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, 1970 Datsun 1200 (95 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1970 Datsun 1200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Datsun 1200 | 1989 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1200 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1171 cc | 1270 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 39 L | 42 L |
