1988 Ford Fiesta vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Polo (59 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1988 Ford Fiesta. (44 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 252 kg more than 1988 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1998 Volkswagen Polo (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Fiesta. (68 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Fiesta | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | Polo |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 768 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2410 mm |
