2009 Mazda Tribute vs. 1997 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Mazda Tribute 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 2,483 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda Tribute (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 595 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.
Because 2009 Mazda Tribute is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda Tribute 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 Mazda Tribute (232 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Mazda Tribute has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda Tribute will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda Tribute | 1997 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tribute | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2483 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
