1980 Ford Escort vs. 1997 Rover 414i

To start off, 1997 Rover 414i is newer by 17 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 1,399 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Rover 414i is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Rover 414i (103 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (43 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Rover 414i should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Rover 414i weights approximately 557 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, 1997 Rover 414i, 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, 1997 Rover 414i (167 Nm) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (71 Nm). This means 1997 Rover 414i will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.

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