2003 BMW 520 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 7 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. At 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 635 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.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (124 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2410 mm |
