2002 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 520 (168 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (104 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 520 weights approximately 582 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW 520 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 2002 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2002 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (175 Nm @ 1550 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 520 | 2012 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1088 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2470 mm |
