1996 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (84 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 348 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 Volkswagen Golf (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Polo | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2578 mm |
