1966 Ford Cortina 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 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Ford Cortina (49 HP) has 1 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Ford Cortina should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Ford Cortina weights approximately 70 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 1966 Ford Cortina 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 Ford Cortina. 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, 1966 Ford Cortina (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1966 Ford Cortina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Cortina | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Cortina | Escort |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1115 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 48 HP |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 65 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 48 L |
