1982 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1995 Volvo 850
To start off, 1995 Volvo 850 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,983 cc (5 cylinders), 1995 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Volvo 850 (142 HP) has 103 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Volvo 850 weights approximately 655 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1995 Volvo 850 (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1995 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. 1995 Volvo 850 has automatic transmission and 1982 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1982 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Volvo 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Volkswagen Polo | 1995 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Polo | 850 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 142 HP |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2670 mm |
