1997 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Volkswagen Caddy
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Caddy is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Caddy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Caddy (101 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Caddy should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Caddy weights approximately 1137 kg more than 1997 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, 2012 Volkswagen Caddy (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Caddy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Escort | 2012 Volkswagen Caddy | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Caddy |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1810 mm |
