1989 Skoda L vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Skoda L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Skoda L would be higher. At 1,422 cc (3 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1989 Skoda L. (58 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1989 Skoda L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 280 kg more than 1989 Skoda L. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Skoda L 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 1989 Skoda L. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Skoda L. (90 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Skoda L.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Skoda L | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Skoda | Volkswagen |
| Model | L | Polo |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1221 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 885 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
