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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1989 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 2500 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 | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1700 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
