1996 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 230 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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Polo | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2590 mm |
