1986 Ford Escort vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 12 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 461 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, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm). This means 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
