2003 Ford Mustang vs. 1987 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2003 Ford Mustang is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 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 @ 5750 RPM) has 356 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 710 kg more than 1987 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, 1987 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 460 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Ford Mustang 1987 Volkswagen Polo
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Mustang Polo
Year Released 2003 1987
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 44 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 556 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1480 kg 770 kg
Vehicle Length 4660 mm 3660 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1590 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2340 mm