1980 Ford Escort vs. 1969 Riley Kestrel
To start off, 1980 Ford Escort is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Riley Kestrel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Riley Kestrel would be higher. At 1,275 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Riley Kestrel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Riley Kestrel (64 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Riley Kestrel should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort.
Because 1980 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 1980 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Riley Kestrel, 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, 1969 Riley Kestrel (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1969 Riley Kestrel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 1969 Riley Kestrel | |
| Make | Ford | Riley |
| Model | Escort | Kestrel |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1969 |
| Engine Size | 939 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 25 L |
