1996 Lada Samara vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1996 Lada Samara 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 1,288 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lada Samara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lada Samara (64 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lada Samara should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lada Samara weights approximately 220 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.
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 Lada Samara (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 Lada Samara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lada Samara | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Lada | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samara | Polo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2340 mm |
