1983 BMW 316 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 24 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Polo (104 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1983 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 147 kg more than 1983 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2007 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, both vehicles can yield 140 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2007 Volkswagen Polo has automatic transmission and 1983 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1983 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volkswagen Polo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1983 BMW 316 2007 Volkswagen Polo
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 316 Polo
Year Released 1983 2007
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1572 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 88 HP 104 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 140 Nm 140 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Top Speed 175 km/hour 184 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 990 kg 1137 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 3920 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2470 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 45 L