1999 Ford Mustang vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1999 Ford Mustang is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Mustang (256 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Mustang weights approximately 396 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Ford Mustang is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1999 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Polo, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1999 Ford Mustang (406 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Mustang | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | Polo |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 406 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1482 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
