2007 BMW 120 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2007 BMW 120 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 120 (148 HP) has 109 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 120 weights approximately 635 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2007 BMW 120 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 2007 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 2007 BMW 120 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

2007 BMW 120 1976 Volkswagen Polo
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 120 Polo
Year Released 2007 1976
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1043 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 39 HP
Torque 200 Nm 74 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 59 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 213 km/hour 135 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1335 kg 700 kg
Vehicle Length 4230 mm 3660 mm
Vehicle Width 1440 mm 1590 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2410 mm