1998 BMW 730 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 1998 BMW 730 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 730 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 730 weights approximately 975 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 BMW 730 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 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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 730 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 730 1986 Volkswagen Polo
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 730 Polo
Year Released 1998 1986
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2793 cc 1041 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 190 HP 44 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 95 Nm
Torque RPM 3950 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1745 kg 770 kg
Vehicle Length 5130 mm 3660 mm
Vehicle Width 1870 mm 1590 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2340 mm