1983 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,551 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP) has 95 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 958 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Microbus 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 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volkswagen Polo | 1997 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | Microbus |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 2551 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 702 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2470 mm |
