1996 Ford Escort vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Escort (74 HP) has 4 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (70 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 25 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 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, 1981 Volkswagen Santana (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Santana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Santana |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
