1979 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1979 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 483 kg more than 1979 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Ford Escort | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Escort | GTI |
Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 939 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 45 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 60 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1393 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4213 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1501 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |