1995 Ford Escort vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1995 Ford Escort is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Ford Escort (70 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Ford Escort weights approximately 195 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1995 Ford Escort (133 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1995 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Ford Escort | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Passat |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1390 mm |
