1996 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2008 Volvo S60
To start off, 2008 Volvo S60 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 2,399 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S60 (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S60 weights approximately 549 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 S60 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S60 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 S60 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Polo | S60 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
