1986 Ford Escort vs. 1976 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,751 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Volkswagen Golf (75 HP) has 16 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1976 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 90 kg more than 1976 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. Let's talk about torque, 1976 Volkswagen Golf (119 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1976 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 1976 Volkswagen Golf
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Escort Golf
Year Released 1986 1976
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1751 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 75 HP
Torque 110 Nm 119 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 80 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 21.5:1 8.2:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 910 kg 820 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 3830 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2410 mm