1998 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 65 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beetle | Polo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1899 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
