1973 De Tomaso Pantera vs. 1988 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1988 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 De Tomaso Pantera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 De Tomaso Pantera would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 De Tomaso Pantera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 De Tomaso Pantera (350 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 306 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 De Tomaso Pantera should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 De Tomaso Pantera weights approximately 580 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.
Because 1973 De Tomaso Pantera 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 1973 De Tomaso Pantera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1973 De Tomaso Pantera (525 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 430 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1973 De Tomaso Pantera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 De Tomaso Pantera | 1988 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | De Tomaso | Volkswagen |
| Model | Pantera | Polo |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5766 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 525 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2340 mm |
