1983 BMW 316 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,765 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 316 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 175 kg more than 1983 BMW 316.
Because 1983 BMW 316 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 1983 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 316. 1983 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 316 | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1765 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
