2003 Mazda Tribute vs. 1988 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Mazda Tribute 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Tribute (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 820 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 Mazda Tribute 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 Mazda Tribute 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 Mazda Tribute (231 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. 2003 Mazda Tribute 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 Mazda Tribute will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Tribute | 1988 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tribute | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2340 mm |
