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Volkswagen1981 Volkswagen Polo II Classic (86C) Dimensions, Size & Specs| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1981 |
| Production Years: | 1981 - 1990 discontinued in 1990 |
Precise measurements of the 1981 Volkswagen Polo II Classic, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 3725 mm146.7 in12.2 ft |
| Width: | 1570 mm61.8 in5.2 ft |
| Height: | 1350 mm53.1 in4.4 ft |
| Ground Clearance: | 105 mm4.1 in0.3 ft |
| Trunk Capacity: | 240 liter8.5 cu ft |
| Trunk Capacity (Max): | 915 liter32.3 cu ft |
| Weight Specifications | |
| Curb Weight: | 765 kg1687 lbs |
| Maximal permitted Weight: | 1230 kg2712 lbs |
| Tire Specifications | |
| Rims Size: | 13 |
| Tire Size: | 155/70 R13 (W:155 | H:70 | D:13) |
The Volkswagen Polo II Classic (86C) is a compact sedan produced from 1981 to 1990, representing the second generation of the Polo range. This model is noted for its practical dimensions and efficient use of space, making it a popular choice in the subcompact segment during the 1980s. The Polo II Classic measures 3725 mm (146.7 inches) in length, 1570 mm (61.8 inches) in width, and 1350 mm (53.1 inches) in height, giving it a compact footprint ideal for urban driving and easy parking. It rides on 13-inch rims with 155/70 R13 tires, ensuring a smooth and stable ride while maintaining fuel efficiency.
Weighing just 765 kg (1687 lbs) at curb weight and a maximum weight capacity of 1230 kg (2712 lbs), the Polo II Classic is lightweight yet robust, contributing to agile handling and economical fuel consumption. The sedan's ground clearance is 105 mm (4.1 inches), which strikes a balance between comfort and maneuverability on city roads and uneven surfaces.
In terms of practicality, the Polo II Classic offers a luggage capacity of 240 liters (8.5 cubic feet) with the rear seats in place, and an expanded capacity of 915 liters (32.3 cubic feet) when the rear seats are folded down — impressive for its size, enhancing versatility for daily errands or small trips. This generation's design focused on simplicity, reliability, and functionality, making it a notable model in Volkswagen's Polo lineage. Whether for city commuting or light cargo transport, the Polo II Classic (86C) remains an emblematic compact sedan from the 1980s with well-balanced dimensions and practical features.
Discover the standout features that make the 1981 Volkswagen Polo II Classic a leader in its class
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The Volkswagen Polo II Classic (86C) sedan, produced between 1981 and 1990, has a length of 3725 mm (146.7 inches), a width of 1570 mm (61.8 inches), and a height of 1350 mm (53.1 inches). These compact dimensions position the Polo II Classic as a small city car suitable for urban environments. The relatively modest size allowed for easy maneuverability and parking, which was a key advantage for drivers in crowded European cities during the 1980s.
The curb weight of the Volkswagen Polo II Classic (86C) stands at 765 kg (1687 lbs), making it a lightweight vehicle that contributes to its fuel efficiency and nimble handling. The maximum allowable weight, which includes passengers, cargo, and fuel, is 1230 kg (2712 lbs). This weight range accommodates four to five passengers along with their cargo without compromising vehicle performance or safety.
The Volkswagen Polo II Classic offers a practical luggage capacity of 240 liters (8.47 cubic feet) with all seats in place. For added versatility, folding the rear seats expands the cargo space to 915 liters (32.3 cubic feet). This generous increase in luggage room enhances the Polo’s appeal as a functional small sedan, capable of handling longer trips or bulkier items despite its compact size.
The Volkswagen Polo II Classic (86C) has a ground clearance of 105 mm (4.1 inches). While relatively low by modern standards, this clearance provides a stable, low center of gravity for improved handling and driving dynamics on paved roads. However, it limits the vehicle's ability to navigate rough terrain or deep potholes, so it is best suited for city and highway use where road surfaces are smooth.
This Polo generation is equipped with 13-inch rims paired with tire dimensions of 155/70 R13. These tire measurements offer a balanced compromise between comfort and agility, aligning with the Polo's character as a city car designed for efficient daily driving and easy maneuvering in tight urban spaces.
Yes, the Volkswagen Polo II Classic (86C) generally fits comfortably into a standard-sized garage. Its compact dimensions of 3725 mm (146.7 inches) in length and 1570 mm (61.8 inches) in width ensure easy access and parking in typical residential garages, which usually accommodate vehicles up to 6 meters (approximately 19.7 feet) in length. This makes the Polo II Classic a practical choice for owners with standard home parking facilities.
Compared to the Polo I, the Polo II Classic (86C) introduced a slightly larger and more refined design. While exact dimensions of the Polo I varied by model, the Polo II Classic's length of 3725 mm and width of 1570 mm reflected a modest increase in size to improve interior space and comfort. It also maintained a relatively lightweight structure at 765 kg curb weight, capitalizing on improved materials and engineering to enhance overall vehicle efficiency without adding significant bulk. These incremental size changes helped cement the Polo II Classic’s position as a more practical and comfortable compact sedan over its predecessor.
In the 1980s, the Volkswagen Polo II Classic (86C) was competitive among small sedans such as the Ford Fiesta Mk2, Opel Kadett, and Fiat Ritmo. Its length of 3725 mm (146.7 inches) and width of 1570 mm (61.8 inches) put it slightly smaller or similar in size to these rivals, enhancing its appeal for urban drivers prioritizing maneuverability and ease of parking. The lightweight design and efficient footprint of the Polo II made it a favorite choice for economical city driving, while its relatively spacious luggage capacity (240 liters standard, 915 liters with rear seats folded) gave it a practical advantage in the segment.
The curb weight of 765 kg (1687 lbs) contributes significantly to the Polo II Classic's impressive fuel economy and nimble handling characteristics. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to move, translating into reduced fuel consumption and improved responsiveness, especially in city traffic. This weight also positively impacts braking distances and cornering behavior, offering drivers a balanced blend of efficiency and agility which was particularly beneficial during the fuel-conscious 1980s era.
The Volkswagen Polo II Classic (86C) runs on 13-inch rims paired with 155/70 R13 tires. This combination offers a sufficient sidewall height for absorbing road irregularities, contributing to ride comfort and protection against potholes or rough surfaces. At the same time, the tire width supports adequate traction and stable cornering performance for a vehicle of its size. This balance was typical for compact sedans of the era, ensuring the Polo provided a comfortable yet controlled driving experience.
