2009 Chevrolet Kalos vs. 1978 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Kalos is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Kalos is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Kalos (82 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Kalos should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Kalos weights approximately 385 kg more than 1978 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, 2009 Chevrolet Kalos (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Kalos will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Kalos | 1978 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kalos | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 35 L |
