1989 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 23 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 1,700 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Passat |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1700 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4771 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
