1991 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1991 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 318.
Because 1991 BMW 318 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 1991 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (220 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 318 | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.2 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |
