1996 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2011 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2011 Toyota Matrix 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Toyota Matrix (132 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
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 Toyota Matrix (173 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2011 Toyota Matrix 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. 2011 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Polo | 2011 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Toyota |
| Model | Polo | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4366 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2601 mm |
