1968 Ford Escort vs. 1961 Ford Popular
To start off, 1968 Ford Escort is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Popular would be higher. At 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Ford Escort (56 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1961 Ford Popular. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Ford Escort weights approximately 75 kg more than 1961 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Ford Escort | 1961 Ford Popular | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Popular |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 41 L | 55 L |
