1982 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 26 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1982 Ford Escort. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 359 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.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (137 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Escort | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 184 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 924 kg | 1283 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
