1986 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2004 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (296 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 892 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Mustang 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 2004 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2004 Ford Mustang (427 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. 2004 Ford Mustang has automatic transmission and 1986 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1986 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Volkswagen Polo | 2004 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | Polo | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 4606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 770 kg | 1662 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2620 mm |
