1977 Ford Cortina vs. 1989 Ford Escort
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Ford Cortina (86 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Ford Cortina should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
Because 1977 Ford Cortina 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 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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 Ford Cortina (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 Ford Cortina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Cortina | 1989 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Cortina | Escort |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
