1995 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2012 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Maxima is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1995 Volkswagen Polo. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1995 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 646 kg more than 1995 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Nissan Maxima (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Volkswagen Polo. (129 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Volkswagen Polo | 2012 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
| Model | Polo | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2776 mm |
