1979 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Holden Astra
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1979 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Astra weights approximately 275 kg more than 1979 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Holden 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, 2003 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Escort | 2003 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Escort | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 939 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
