1988 BMW M5 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1988 BMW M5 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,533 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M5 (311 HP) has 272 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M5 weights approximately 1033 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW M5 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 1988 BMW M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1988 BMW M5 (360 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 286 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M5 | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M5 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3533 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1733 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2340 mm |
