2009 Nissan Versa vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Nissan Versa 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Versa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Versa (122 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Versa weights approximately 558 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 Nissan Versa (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Versa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Nissan Versa 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 Nissan Versa will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Versa | 1989 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Versa | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 774 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2340 mm |
