1984 BMW 316 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,767 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Polo (178 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1984 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 279 kg more than 1984 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Polo (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 316 | 2011 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1767 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1269 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2470 mm |
