2009 BMW 120 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 13 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (155 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 365 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 2009 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 2009 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2009 BMW 120 (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 120 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
