1972 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 5,752 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Mustang (330 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Mustang weights approximately 576 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 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. 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, 1972 Ford Mustang (502 Nm) has 392 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm). This means 1972 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1972 Ford Mustang 1986 Ford Escort
Make Ford Ford
Model Mustang Escort
Year Released 1972 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5752 cc 1751 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 330 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 502 Nm 110 Nm
Engine Bore Size 101.6 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88.9 mm 82 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1486 kg 910 kg
Vehicle Length 4820 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1280 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2780 mm 2520 mm