2003 BMW 318 vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 BMW 318 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 318 weights approximately 620 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 318 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 2003 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2003 BMW 318 (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 318 | 1989 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1041 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2340 mm |
