1986 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2004 Holden Astra
To start off, 2004 Holden Astra is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Holden Astra (124 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Holden Astra weights approximately 508 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2004 Holden Astra (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. 2004 Holden Astra has automatic transmission and 1986 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1986 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Volkswagen Polo | 2004 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Holden |
| Model | Polo | Astra |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 770 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2620 mm |
