1982 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2010 BMW 550
To start off, 2010 BMW 550 is newer by 28 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 550 (400 HP) has 361 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 550 weights approximately 1525 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.
Because 2010 BMW 550 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 2010 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 2010 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 535 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. 2010 BMW 550 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. 2010 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Volkswagen Polo | 2010 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Polo | 550 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 400 HP |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4999 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 3066 mm |
