1977 Ford Escort vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,043 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Ford Escort (45 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Ford Escort weights approximately 210 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1983 Volkswagen Polo (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1983 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Escort | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Polo |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 939 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 40 L |
