1988 Nissan Micra vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1988 Nissan Micra. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1988 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 455 kg more than 1988 Nissan Micra. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Nissan Micra. (73 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Nissan Micra | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Micra | Polo |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 665 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2470 mm |
