1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (101 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2005 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2470 mm |
