1988 Ford Taurus vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Taurus (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Taurus weights approximately 305 kg more than 2004 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, 1988 Ford Taurus (177 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Taurus | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus | Polo |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2520 mm |
