1986 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 22 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 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 440 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.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
