1981 Ford Escort vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 24 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 546 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2710 mm |
