1972 Toyota Publica vs. 2006 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Toyota Publica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Toyota Publica would be higher. At 1,422 cc (3 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Polo (79 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1972 Toyota Publica. (38 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1972 Toyota Publica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 487 kg more than 1972 Toyota Publica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Toyota Publica 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 1972 Toyota Publica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Toyota Publica. (62 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Toyota Publica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Toyota Publica | 2006 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Publica | Polo |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 790 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3680 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2470 mm |
