1992 Volvo 850 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1992 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Volvo 850 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (104 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Volvo 850 weights approximately 242 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1992 Volvo 850 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 1992 Volvo 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1992 Volvo 850 (221 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (175 Nm @ 1550 RPM). This means 1992 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

1992 Volvo 850 2012 Volkswagen Polo
Make Volvo Volkswagen
Model 850 Polo
Year Released 1992 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2435 cc 1200 cc
Engine Cylinders 5 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 170 HP 104 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 221 Nm 175 Nm
Torque RPM 3300 RPM 1550 RPM
Top Speed 216 km/hour 190 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.2 seconds 9.7 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1330 kg 1088 kg
Vehicle Length 4670 mm 3970 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1682 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1462 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2470 mm