1996 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2008 Volvo C30
To start off, 2008 Volvo C30 is newer by 12 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo C30 (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo C30 weights approximately 324 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, 2008 Volvo C30 (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Polo | 2008 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Polo | C30 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 150 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 | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1279 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
