1986 Ford Escort vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 16 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 285 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2002 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 | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| 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 | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
