2008 Subaru Impreza vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2008 Subaru Impreza 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 1,992 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Subaru Impreza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Subaru Impreza (158 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Impreza should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Subaru Impreza weights approximately 224 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 Subaru Impreza 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 Subaru Impreza 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 Subaru Impreza (186 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Impreza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Subaru Impreza 1996 Volkswagen Polo
Make Subaru Volkswagen
Model Impreza Polo
Year Released 2008 1996
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1992 cc 1595 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 158 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 186 Nm 140 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 77.4 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1310 kg 1086 kg
Vehicle Length 4470 mm 4150 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2530 mm 2410 mm