2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer (390 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 327 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer weights approximately 166 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 TrailBlazer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer will offer significantly more control. 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 TrailBlazer (542 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 417 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer 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 TrailBlazer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer 1996 Volkswagen Polo
Make Chevrolet Volkswagen
Model TrailBlazer Polo
Year Released 2009 1996
Body Type SUV Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5999 cc 1896 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 390 HP 63 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 542 Nm 125 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1266 kg 1100 kg
Vehicle Length 4880 mm 4150 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1730 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2880 mm 2410 mm