1986 Ford Escort vs. 1968 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,751 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Escort (59 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1968 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1968 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort.
Because 1968 Volkswagen 1600 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1968 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Escort, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, both vehicles can yield 110 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1968 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 1583 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 40 L |
