1976 Chrysler Centura vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler Centura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler Centura (118 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler Centura should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler Centura weights approximately 205 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 1976 Chrysler Centura 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 1976 Chrysler Centura. 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, 1976 Chrysler Centura (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler Centura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler Centura | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | Centura | Escort |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 1751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
