1985 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 27 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (115 HP) has 66 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 610 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 115 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
