1980 Ford Escort vs. 1987 Ford Probe
To start off, 1987 Ford Probe is newer by 7 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 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Probe (138 HP) has 89 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Probe weights approximately 390 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1987 Ford Probe (262 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 1987 Ford Probe | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Probe |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1116 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2530 mm |
