2009 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1988 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 477 kg more than 1988 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 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Golf | 1988 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2340 mm |
