1996 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2012 Mazda 2
To start off, 2012 Mazda 2 is newer by 16 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, 2012 Mazda 2 (95 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 2 weights approximately 65 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, 2012 Mazda 2 (205 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (124 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Polo | 2012 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Polo | 2 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1475 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2489 mm |
