1988 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (104 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1988 Ford Escort. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 63 kg more than 1988 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, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (175 Nm @ 1550 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Escort. (145 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Escort | 2012 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Polo |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1088 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2470 mm |
