1989 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 1997 Volvo S70 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (124 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 813 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1997 Volvo S70 (171 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. 1997 Volvo S70 has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volvo S70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volkswagen Polo | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Polo | S70 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 76 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
