2009 Chevrolet Express vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Express 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 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Express (193 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1299 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 Chevrolet Express 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 Chevrolet Express. 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 Chevrolet Express (260 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Chevrolet Express 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 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Express | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Express | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4300 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2385 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5700 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2080 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2410 mm |
