2006 BMW 523 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2006 BMW 523 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 523 weights approximately 932 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 BMW 523 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 2006 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 2006 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW 523 1984 Volkswagen Polo
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 523 Polo
Year Released 2006 1984
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1043 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 175 HP 38 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 74 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 78.8 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 59 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1632 kg 700 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 3660 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1590 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2340 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 55 L