1996 BMW 528 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1996 BMW 528 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 528 (201 HP) has 162 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 528 weights approximately 995 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 528 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 1996 BMW 528. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1996 BMW 528 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 528 | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 528 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
