1973 Peugeot 304 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 1,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Peugeot 304 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (104 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1973 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1973 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 173 kg more than 1973 Peugeot 304. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (175 Nm @ 1550 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Peugeot 304 | 2012 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 304 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 1088 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2470 mm |
