2009 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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 Polo (220 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Polo | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
