2003 Morgan Aero 8 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Morgan Aero 8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Morgan Aero 8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Morgan Aero 8 (282 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Morgan Aero 8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 18 kg more than 2003 Morgan Aero 8.
Because 2003 Morgan Aero 8 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 Morgan Aero 8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Morgan Aero 8 (438 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 322 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Morgan Aero 8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Morgan Aero 8 | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Morgan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Aero 8 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 438 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1002 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |
