1971 Dodge Challenger 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 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 3,685 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Dodge Challenger (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (61 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 585 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 Dodge Challenger 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 Dodge Challenger. 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 Dodge Challenger (233 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Dodge Challenger | 1989 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Challenger | Escort |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3685 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 61 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2410 mm |
