1983 Ford Escort vs. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta (177 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1983 Ford Escort. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 230 kg more than 1983 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, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Escort. (111 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Escort | 2005 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2520 mm |
