2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra 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 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 103 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.
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 (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Elantra | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elantra | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | 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 | 141 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1058 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
