1986 BMW 316 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1986 BMW 316 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,573 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 316 (86 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 316 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1986 BMW 316 (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1986 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 316 | 1976 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 59 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
