2008 BMW 316 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2008 BMW 316 is newer by 32 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 316 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 316 weights approximately 685 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 2008 BMW 316 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 316. 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, 2008 BMW 316 (176 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (57 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 316 1976 Volkswagen Polo
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 316 Polo
Year Released 2008 1976
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 895 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 113 HP 39 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5900 RPM
Torque 176 Nm 57 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 69.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81 mm 59 mm
Top Speed 201 km/hour 135 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1375 kg 690 kg
Vehicle Length 4270 mm 3510 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1570 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2340 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 35 L