1993 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (178 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1993 BMW 520. (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1993 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 BMW 520 weights approximately 219 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Polo.
Because 1993 BMW 520 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 1993 BMW 520. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 BMW 520 | 2012 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1269 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1462 mm |
