1996 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volkswagen Golf (70 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 245 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
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 Volkswagen Polo (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (114 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Polo | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2340 mm |
