1980 Ford Escort vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 287 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.
Because 1980 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 1980 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Ford Escort | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Escort | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 939 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 45 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 60 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1162 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |