1987 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1297 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2012 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. 2012 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1987 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1987 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Volkswagen Polo | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
Model | Polo | Explorer |
Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1043 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 44 HP | 290 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 96 Nm | 345 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 770 kg | 2067 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 5006 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 2004 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1788 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2860 mm |