1982 Ford Escort vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Ford Escort (103 HP) has 50 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Escort weights approximately 94 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1982 Ford Escort (137 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1982 Ford Escort 1986 Volkswagen Golf
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Escort Golf
Year Released 1982 1986
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1597 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 103 HP 53 HP
Torque 137 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79.5 mm 72 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 924 kg 830 kg
Vehicle Length 4060 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2340 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 40 L 55 L