1972 Fiat 124 vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,751 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Fiat 124 (60 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Fiat 124 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Fiat 124 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 1972 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1986 Ford Escort (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 124 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 45 L |
