1982 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Ford Escort (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 390 kg more than 1982 Ford Escort.
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 New Beetle (240 Nm) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (137 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Escort | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 924 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
