1974 Ford Fairlane vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 3,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Ford Fairlane (153 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (104 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 364 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1974 Ford Fairlane 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 1974 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1974 Ford Fairlane (325 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (175 Nm @ 1550 RPM). This means 1974 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Ford Fairlane 2012 Volkswagen Polo
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Fairlane Polo
Year Released 1974 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3984 cc 1200 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 153 HP 104 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 325 Nm 175 Nm
Torque RPM 1600 RPM 1550 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1452 kg 1088 kg
Vehicle Length 5060 mm 3970 mm
Vehicle Width 1910 mm 1682 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1462 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2470 mm