1990 BMW 316 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Polo (178 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 189 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. 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 (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2011 Volkswagen Polo has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volkswagen Polo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2011 Volkswagen Polo
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 316 Polo
Year Released 1990 2011
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1200 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 178 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1269 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 3970 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1682 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1462 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2470 mm