1982 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 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 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (69 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 435 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Volkswagen Polo | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | Golf |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.4 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 45 L |
