2003 Saab 03-Sep vs. 1978 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (250 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 980 kg more than 1978 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (370 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Saab 03-Sep | 1978 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 03-Sep | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 35 L |
