1971 Volkswagen 1600 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1985 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Volkswagen 1600 (53 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (38 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Volkswagen 1600 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volkswagen 1600 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 1971 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1971 Volkswagen 1600 (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1971 Volkswagen 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Volkswagen 1600 | 1985 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1600 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 38 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
