1987 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1972 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1987 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Volkswagen 1600 (53 HP) has 9 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Volkswagen 1600 should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 196 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Volkswagen 1600 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 1972 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1972 Volkswagen 1600 (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1972 Volkswagen 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Volkswagen Polo | 1972 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 770 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
