1983 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (104 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 377 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (153 Nm @ 300 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (129 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Volkswagen Polo has automatic transmission and 1983 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1983 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Polo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volkswagen Golf | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Polo |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
