1980 Ford Escort vs. 1998 Ford Taurus
To start off, 1998 Ford Taurus is newer by 18 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort.
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, 1998 Ford Taurus (264 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort. 1998 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1980 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1980 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 1998 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
