1986 Ford Escort vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,751 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volkswagen Golf (70 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Escort weights approximately 80 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
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. 1974 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 151 km/hour | 156 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
