1981 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 256 kg more than 1981 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Escort | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Escort | Golf |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 121 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1210 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2710 mm |