2005 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1978 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 27 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 3,354 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Impala (177 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 850 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, 2005 Chevrolet Impala (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. 2005 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Impala | 1978 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Impala | Polo |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3354 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 35 L |
