1976 Mazda RX-4 vs. 1982 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1982 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mazda RX-4 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mazda RX-4 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mazda RX-4 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 1976 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 1976 Mazda RX-4 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (75 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1976 Mazda RX-4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mazda RX-4 | 1982 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-4 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 75 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2340 mm |
