1982 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 22 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1982 Ford Escort. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 431 kg more than 1982 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (137 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Escort. 2004 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1982 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1982 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Escort | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Golf |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 233 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 924 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
