1980 Ford Escort vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1985 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volkswagen Passat (74 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 180 kg more than 1980 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, 1985 Volkswagen Passat (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1985 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 1985 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Passat |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1116 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2560 mm |
