1987 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 25 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (161 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 710 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze has automatic transmission and 1987 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1987 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Volkswagen Polo | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Polo | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 770 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1797 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2685 mm |
