2005 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,423 cc, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 215 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Polo.
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 (118 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Polo | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1423 cc | 1391 cc |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1160 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2480 mm |
