1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1982 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 600 kg more than 1982 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (285 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (75 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 1982 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 75 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 59 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
