1989 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 322 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1989 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (252 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (126 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1989 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volkswagen Golf | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Polo |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1112 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2590 mm |
