1995 BMW 317 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Polo (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW 317 weights approximately 200 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Polo.
Because 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Polo (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 2003 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 317 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
