1973 Volkswagen 1600 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 135 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1600 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 45 L |
