1970 Ford Escort vs. 1986 Ford Meteor

To start off, 1986 Ford Meteor is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Ford Escort (120 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1986 Ford Meteor. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Meteor.

Because 1970 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 1970 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Meteor, 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, 1970 Ford Escort (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Meteor. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1970 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Meteor.

Compare all specifications:

1970 Ford Escort 1986 Ford Meteor
Make Ford Ford
Model Escort Meteor
Year Released 1970 1986
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1599 cc 1596 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 120 HP 71 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 148 Nm 121 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 3980 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1570 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2410 mm