1971 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (83 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1971 Ford Escort. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 284 kg more than 1971 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Ford Escort is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (123 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Escort. (68 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Escort | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Polo |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 1089 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2470 mm |
