2002 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. Both 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle and 1996 Volkswagen Polo are equipped with a 1,896 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 278 kg more than 1996 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | Polo |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
