1978 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2012 BMW X5
To start off, 2012 BMW X5 is newer by 34 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X5 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 351 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X5 weights approximately 1755 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 2012 BMW X5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 BMW X5 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 532 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. 2012 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Polo | 2012 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Polo | X5 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1093 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 685 kg | 2440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1933 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1775 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2933 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 85 L |
