1981 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTD
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTD is newer by 31 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTD is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTD (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTD should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTD weights approximately 455 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTD (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTD will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 2012 Volkswagen GTD | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | GTD |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1409 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2578 mm |
