Polo I 1975-1981
When it was unveiled in March 1975, the Polo was the smallest car Volkswagen had ever produced. Despite being just 3.5 metres in length, it offered ample space for four people and their luggage. At the time, it became the smallest member of a new, modern model range alongside the Passat, Scirocco, and Golf. The Polo weighed just 685 kilogrammes and reached speeds up to 132 km/h, or 82mph.
1.1 million total production worldwide
The three-door small car offered a range of equipment that was well-crafted, but had been reduced to the most necessary items to allow the vehicle to be sold at an affordable price. The Polo N was the entry-level version, available from DM 7,500, while the Polo L was available for an additional DM 510. The superior “L” equipment included a two-stage blower, rear window wiper, and carpet.
A small Audi car from Ingolstadt came to be produced at the Volkswagen plant in Wolfsburg from the summer of 1974. The almost identical Volkswagen Polo followed suit, albeit with a slight delay, and went into production on 5 March 1975.
In 1976, 37 kW and 44 kW (50 PS and 60 PS) engines were added to the range, and a model update provided a more modern look.
In 1977, the Derby notchback saloon was launched as an additional body variant.
The aim of the modern project was to gain a foothold in the small car segment and pit the new model against competitors from Italy and France.
The Polo GT arrived in 1979, offering a sporty look.
Customers looking to reduce their fuel consumption could opt for the 1981 Polo Formel E, which included fuel-saving technology.
