1978 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 863 kg more than 1978 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Polo | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1093 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 685 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 62 L |
