1996 Toyota Corolla vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,762 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota Corolla is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Corolla. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 1275 kg more than 1996 Toyota Corolla. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (140 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota Corolla. (131 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Toyota Corolla | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corolla | Polo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1762 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1032 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
