1989 Skoda Rapid R vs. 2011 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Skoda Rapid R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Skoda Rapid R would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Skoda Rapid R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1989 Skoda Rapid R. (62 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1989 Skoda Rapid R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 282 kg more than 1989 Skoda Rapid R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Skoda Rapid R 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 Rapid R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Polo (180 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Skoda Rapid R. (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Skoda Rapid R.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Skoda Rapid R | 2011 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Skoda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rapid R | Polo |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2850 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
