2008 BMW 120 vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 BMW 120 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 120 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 120 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2008 BMW 120 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. 2008 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 120 | 1989 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 120 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
