1989 Ford Escort vs. 1979 Volkswagen Iltis
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Iltis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Iltis would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Escort (89 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Iltis. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Iltis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volkswagen Iltis weights approximately 275 kg more than 1989 Ford Escort.
Because 1979 Volkswagen Iltis is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Iltis 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, 1989 Ford Escort (144 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Iltis. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Iltis.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 1979 Volkswagen Iltis | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Iltis |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2110 mm |
