1981 Volkswagen Santana vs. 1999 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 25 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 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, 1999 Volkswagen Polo (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volkswagen Santana | 1999 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Santana | Polo |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2410 mm |
