2012 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1971 Ford Escort

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1971 Ford Escort. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 595 kg more than 1971 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 Ford Escort is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Escort. (68 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Escort. 1971 Ford Escort has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Ford Escort will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2012 Volkswagen Jetta 1971 Ford Escort
Make Volkswagen Ford
Model Jetta Escort
Year Released 2012 1971
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2000 cc 1098 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 140 HP 38 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 68 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type 6-speed manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1400 kg 805 kg
Vehicle Length 4644 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 1778 mm 1580 mm
Vehicle Height 1482 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2651 mm 2400 mm


 

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