1998 BMW 320 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (150 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 505 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1998 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. (129 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. 2001 Volkswagen Polo has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Volkswagen Polo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2001 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 320 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
