1954 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Austin-Healey 100 (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Austin-Healey 100 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Austin-Healey 100 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Austin-Healey 100 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 1954 Austin-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Escort, 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, 1954 Austin-Healey 100 (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1954 Austin-Healey 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Austin-Healey 100 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Ford |
| Model | 100 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 1751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2520 mm |
