2003 BMW 545 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2003 BMW 545 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 545 (328 HP) has 289 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 545 weights approximately 970 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 BMW 545 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 545. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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 545 (451 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 377 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. 2003 BMW 545 has automatic transmission and 1976 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1976 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 545 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW 545 1976 Volkswagen Polo
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 545 Polo
Year Released 2003 1976
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4398 cc 1043 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 328 HP 39 HP
Torque 451 Nm 74 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82.7 mm 59 mm
Top Speed 250 km/hour 135 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1670 kg 700 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 3660 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1590 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2410 mm