2008 BMW 320 vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2008 BMW 320 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 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 630 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 320 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 320. 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 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 320 1989 Volkswagen Polo
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 320 Polo
Year Released 2008 1989
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2171 cc 1270 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 168 HP 44 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 4900 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 76 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1470 kg 840 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 3730 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1590 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2340 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 42 L