2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1988 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1312 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 287 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Explorer | 1988 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Explorer | Polo |
Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4605 cc | 1043 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 236 HP | 44 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 382 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 2082 kg | 770 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3660 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2340 mm |