1989 Nissan Micra vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Micra. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 1582 kg more than 1989 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, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (140 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Micra. (96 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Nissan Micra | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Micra | Polo |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1235 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 725 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2470 mm |
