1981 Audi 80 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 80 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Polo (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 156 kg more than 1981 Audi 80. 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, 1996 Volkswagen Polo (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Audi 80 1996 Volkswagen Polo
Make Audi Volkswagen
Model 80 Polo
Year Released 1981 1996
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1296 cc 1595 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 100 Nm 140 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 930 kg 1086 kg
Vehicle Length 4390 mm 4150 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2410 mm