1996 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 125 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (156 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (124 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2003 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volkswagen Polo | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Polo | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 63 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 156 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2860 mm |