1989 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2008 BMW 530

To start off, 2008 BMW 530 is newer by 19 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 2,992 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 530 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 530 weights approximately 920 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.

Because 2008 BMW 530 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 2008 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2008 BMW 530 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 424 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. 2008 BMW 530 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. 2008 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Volkswagen Polo 2008 BMW 530
Make Volkswagen BMW
Model Polo 530
Year Released 1989 2008
Body Type Hatchback Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1272 cc 2992 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 44 HP 215 HP
Engine RPM 4900 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 76 Nm 500 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 840 kg 1760 kg
Vehicle Length 3660 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 1590 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2340 mm 2890 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 70 L