1987 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 498 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.
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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Volkswagen Polo | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 770 kg | 1268 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 3010 mm |
