1984 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2009 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2009 Panoz Esperante is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Panoz Esperante (420 HP) has 381 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 787 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Panoz Esperante 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 2009 Panoz Esperante. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 2009 Panoz Esperante (570 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 496 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Volkswagen Polo | 2009 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Panoz |
| Model | Polo | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1042 cc | 4589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 59 L |
