2001 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1984 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 460 kg more than 1984 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Volkswagen Golf | 1984 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Polo |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
