1989 Ford Escort vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Escort (89 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Escort weights approximately 65 kg more than 1998 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, 1989 Ford Escort (144 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Ford Escort 1998 Volkswagen Polo
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Escort Polo
Year Released 1989 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1859 cc 1043 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 89 HP 49 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 144 Nm 86 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1025 kg 960 kg
Vehicle Length 4300 mm 3720 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2400 mm 2410 mm