1980 Ford Escort vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 315 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Ford Escort | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Escort | Golf |
Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 96 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1210 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |