1996 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2001 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2001 Peugeot 406 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Peugeot 406 (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 244 kg more than 1996 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, 2001 Peugeot 406 (181 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2001 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2001 Peugeot 406 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Peugeot 406 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Polo | 2001 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Peugeot |
| Model | Polo | 406 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
