1980 Ford Escort vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger
To start off, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is newer by 16 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (242 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger weights approximately 1055 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 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Escort | Challenger |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2730 mm |
