1980 Ford Escort vs. 1991 Renault Clio
To start off, 1991 Renault Clio is newer by 11 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Renault Clio (93 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Renault Clio weights approximately 85 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, 1991 Renault Clio, 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, 1991 Renault Clio (142 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1991 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 1991 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Escort | Clio |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 939 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 43 L |
