1966 Datsun 1000 vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Datsun 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Datsun 1000 would be higher. At 1,751 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Datsun 1000 (61 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Datsun 1000 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Escort weights approximately 285 kg more than 1966 Datsun 1000.
Because 1966 Datsun 1000 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 1966 Datsun 1000. 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, 1986 Ford Escort (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Datsun 1000. (84 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Datsun 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Datsun 1000 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 1000 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 1751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 151 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2520 mm |
