1978 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,200 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Polo (84 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 314 kg more than 1978 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, 2011 Volkswagen Polo (132 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Polo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1093 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 756 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
