1985 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (132 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 283 kg more than 1985 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (235 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
