1996 Dodge Intrepid vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Intrepid. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Intrepid would be higher. At 3,522 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Intrepid is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Intrepid (214 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Intrepid should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Intrepid weights approximately 515 kg more than 1998 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, 1996 Dodge Intrepid (339 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Intrepid will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. 1996 Dodge Intrepid has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Dodge Intrepid will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Intrepid | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Intrepid | Polo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3522 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 214 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5126 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2410 mm |
