1975 Ford Escort vs. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1975 Ford Escort. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1975 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 550 kg more than 1975 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1975 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 1975 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Ford Escort. (163 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1975 Ford Escort 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Escort Jetta
Year Released 1975 2010
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1845 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 115 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 163 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4250 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 914 kg 1464 kg
Vehicle Length 3980 mm 4557 mm
Vehicle Width 1600 mm 1781 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1504 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2578 mm