2004 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,422 cc (3 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 345 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Polo | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1422 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 40 L |
