2008 Acura RDX vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Acura RDX is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Acura RDX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Acura RDX (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Acura RDX should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Acura RDX weights approximately 430 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Acura RDX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Acura RDX will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Acura RDX (353 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Acura RDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2008 Acura RDX has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Acura RDX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Acura RDX | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Acura | Volkswagen |
| Model | RDX | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
