1978 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2011 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2011 Nissan Frontier is newer by 33 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 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 1631 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.
Because 2011 Nissan Frontier 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 2011 Nissan Frontier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2011 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Polo | 2011 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
| Model | Polo | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1093 cc | 3952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 685 kg | 2316 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 80 L |
