2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (102 HP) has 63 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 473 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volkswagen Golf (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 184 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
