1998 Volkswagen Fusca vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Fusca would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (60 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. (52 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 340 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Fusca 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 Volkswagen Fusca. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (126 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. (106 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Fusca | 2005 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fusca | Polo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
