1987 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2012 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2012 Toyota Matrix 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Matrix (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Polo.
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 Toyota Matrix (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. 2012 Toyota Matrix 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 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Volkswagen Polo | 2012 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Toyota |
| Model | Polo | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2601 mm |
