1986 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (129 HP) has 54 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 448 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (320 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Polo |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 129 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
