2005 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (60 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 410 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 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 Volkswagen Polo (126 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Polo | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
