1986 Ford Escort vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1988 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volkswagen Golf (53 HP) has 5 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 5 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, 1988 Volkswagen Golf (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1988 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 | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
