1980 Ford Escort vs. 1984 Pontiac Phoenix

To start off, 1984 Pontiac Phoenix is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Pontiac Phoenix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Pontiac Phoenix (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Pontiac Phoenix should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Pontiac Phoenix weights approximately 225 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 1984 Pontiac Phoenix, 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, 1984 Pontiac Phoenix (181 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1984 Pontiac Phoenix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort. 1984 Pontiac Phoenix has automatic transmission and 1980 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1980 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Pontiac Phoenix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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