1989 Ford Escort vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 22 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 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 265 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (144 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2578 mm |
