2004 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1974 Volvo 244
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,125 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 244 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volvo 244 (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volvo 244 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 244 weights approximately 239 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 244 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 1974 Volvo 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 244. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 244. 1974 Volvo 244 has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volvo 244 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Polo | 1974 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Polo | 244 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1422 cc | 2125 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
