1988 Ford Taurus vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 17 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 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Taurus (220 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Taurus weights approximately 186 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (335 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Taurus. (271 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Taurus | 2005 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus | Polo |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
