1981 Mazda Cosmo vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda Cosmo (102 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda Cosmo should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda Cosmo weights approximately 78 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 1981 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1981 Mazda Cosmo (167 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda Cosmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda Cosmo | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cosmo | Polo |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
