1972 GMC Suburban vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 GMC Suburban (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 GMC Suburban weights approximately 1360 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 GMC Suburban will offer significantly more control. 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, 1972 GMC Suburban (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1972 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. 1972 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 GMC Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1972 GMC Suburban 1989 Volkswagen Polo
Make GMC Volkswagen
Model Suburban Polo
Year Released 1972 1989
Body Type SUV Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4093 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 44 HP
Engine RPM 3600 RPM 4900 RPM
Torque 242 Nm 76 Nm
Torque RPM 1600 RPM 2500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 2200 kg 840 kg
Vehicle Length 5480 mm 3660 mm
Vehicle Width 1950 mm 1590 mm
Vehicle Height 1800 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 3300 mm 2340 mm