1996 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2011 Fiat Idea
To start off, 2011 Fiat Idea is newer by 15 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, 2011 Fiat Idea (94 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Fiat Idea should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Fiat Idea weights approximately 115 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, 2011 Fiat Idea (128 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (124 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Polo | 2011 Fiat Idea | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Fiat |
| Model | Polo | Idea |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
