1968 Ford Escort vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1968 Ford Escort. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1968 Ford Escort.

Because 1968 Ford Escort 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 1968 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (165 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Ford Escort. (145 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1968 Ford Escort 1996 Volkswagen Golf
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Escort Golf
Year Released 1968 1996
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1558 cc 1896 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 110 HP 115 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 145 Nm 165 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 10.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Length 3980 mm 4080 mm
Vehicle Width 1580 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2480 mm