1972 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (140 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1972 Ford Escort. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 385 kg more than 1972 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra, 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, 2008 Saturn Astra (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford Escort. (146 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Ford Escort | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
Make | Ford | Saturn |
Model | Escort | Astra |
Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 171 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1285 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4340 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 46 L |