1998 BMW 316 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 316 (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 152 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 316 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Polo, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 12.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1098 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
