1971 Buick GS vs. 1989 Ford Escort

To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Buick GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Buick GS would be higher. At 5,724 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Buick GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Buick GS (190 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (61 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Buick GS should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Buick GS weights approximately 747 kg more than 1989 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 Buick GS 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 1971 Buick GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1971 Buick GS (394 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 294 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Buick GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Buick GS 1989 Ford Escort
Make Buick Ford
Model GS Escort
Year Released 1971 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5724 cc 1297 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 190 HP 61 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 394 Nm 100 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1632 kg 885 kg
Vehicle Length 5180 mm 4050 mm
Vehicle Width 1960 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2410 mm