1984 Ford Escort vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 2400 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1984 Ford Escort. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1984 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, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Escort. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Escort. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1984 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1984 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Escort | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
