2006 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1996 Ford Escort
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Polo (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (112 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 34 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Polo (220 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 1996 Ford Escort has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Ford Escort will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Polo | 1996 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | Polo | Escort |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 48 L |
