1984 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 28 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1984 Ford Escort. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Escort. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Escort. 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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. 2012 Volkswagen GTI will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Escort | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | GTI |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2578 mm |
