2003 Ford Mustang vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Ford Mustang is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP) has 361 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 778 kg more than 1983 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, 1983 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 (556 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 482 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Mustang | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4599 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 400 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 556 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 40 L |
