1980 Ford Escort vs. 1994 Volvo 850
To start off, 1994 Volvo 850 is newer by 14 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 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1994 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volvo 850 (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Volvo 850 weights approximately 542 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, 1994 Volvo 850 (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1994 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 1994 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Escort | 850 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2670 mm |
