2009 BMW 550 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 33 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 4,799 cc, 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP) has 323 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 962 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 2009 BMW 550 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 550. 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, 2009 BMW 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 416 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1976 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1976 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 550 | 1976 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 550 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1043 cc |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2410 mm |
