1974 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 265 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (82 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volkswagen Golf | 2005 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Polo |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 82 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 13.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
