1989 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (61 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 451 kg more than 1989 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 149 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 885 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
