2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 345 kg more than 1989 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 Hyundai Elantra (185 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Elantra | 1989 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elantra | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1119 kg | 774 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2340 mm |
