1986 Ford Escort vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Volkswagen Passat (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 220 kg more than 1986 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, 1984 Volkswagen Passat (101 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1984 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 1984 Volkswagen Passat
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Escort Passat
Year Released 1986 1984
Body Type Hatchback Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1115 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 48 HP 53 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 83 Nm 101 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 2300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 74 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 65 mm 86.4 mm
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 825 kg 1045 kg
Vehicle Length 4030 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2560 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 48 L 60 L