1978 Toyota Starlet vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 330 kg more than 1978 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Toyota Starlet 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 1978 Toyota Starlet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (126 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (84 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Toyota Starlet | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
Model | Starlet | Polo |
Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1166 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 55 HP | 99 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 84 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 775 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 3900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |