2009 Nissan Sentra vs. 1984 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Nissan Sentra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Sentra (138 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 629 kg more than 1984 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 Nissan Sentra (147 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Sentra | 1984 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sentra | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
