1977 Chrysler Centura vs. 1981 Ford Escort
To start off, 1981 Ford Escort is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Chrysler Centura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Chrysler Centura (118 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Chrysler Centura should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Chrysler Centura weights approximately 162 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Chrysler Centura. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1977 Chrysler Centura (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Chrysler Centura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Chrysler Centura | 1981 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | Centura | Escort |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 954 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2400 mm |
