2004 Chevrolet Astro vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 8 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 4,294 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Astro (190 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 855 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 2004 Chevrolet Astro 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 2004 Chevrolet Astro. 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, 2004 Chevrolet Astro (339 Nm) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (125 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Astro | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astro | Polo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4294 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
