1996 Ford Escort vs. 1978 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Escort (74 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 395 kg more than 1978 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, 1996 Ford Escort (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 1978 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Polo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1340 mm |
