1986 Ford Escort vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 25 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP) has 95 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 595 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, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2011 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. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
