2009 Saturn Astra vs. 1995 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1995 Volkswagen Polo. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1995 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 775 kg more than 1995 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 Saturn Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Volkswagen Polo. (129 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Saturn Astra | 1995 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Saturn | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
