2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1997 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 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (117 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1997 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
