2003 Ford Mustang vs. 1976 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2003 Ford Mustang is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 345 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (55 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 767 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 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 2003 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 2003 Ford Mustang (530 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 434 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Ford Mustang 1976 Volkswagen Polo
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Mustang Polo
Year Released 2003 1976
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4601 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 400 HP 55 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 530 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 90.2 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 72 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1492 kg 725 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 3660 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1590 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2490 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 40 L