1974 Mazda 818 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Mazda 818 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mazda 818 (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (60 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mazda 818 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 85 kg more than 1974 Mazda 818.
Because 1974 Mazda 818 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 1974 Mazda 818. 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 (113 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mazda 818 | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 818 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2510 mm |
