2003 Ford Mustang vs. 1978 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Ford Mustang is newer by 25 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 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 351 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 807 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.
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, 1978 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 453 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Mustang | 1978 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 400 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 69.6 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1492 kg | 685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 35 L |
