1996 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1980 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Polo (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 336 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Volkswagen 1302 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 1980 Volkswagen 1302. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Volkswagen Polo (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Polo | 1980 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | 1302 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
