1974 Renault 17 vs. 1987 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1987 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 17. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 17 would be higher. At 1,606 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 17 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 17 (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 17 should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 17 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1974 Renault 17 (136 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 17 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 17 | 1987 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 17 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1606 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2340 mm |
