1986 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 26 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), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| 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 | 74 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
