1981 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 23 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 4,130 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (335 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 265 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1402 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.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4130 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 2356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 3010 mm |
