1968 Ford Escort vs. 1981 Toyota Tercel
To start off, 1981 Toyota Tercel is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Toyota Tercel weights approximately 15 kg more than 1968 Ford Escort.
Because 1968 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 1968 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Toyota Tercel, 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. 1981 Toyota Tercel has automatic transmission and 1968 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1968 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Toyota Tercel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Ford Escort | 1981 Toyota Tercel | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Escort | Tercel |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
