1980 Ford Escort vs. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 19 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 2,350 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (79 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 425 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, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (126 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Escort | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 865 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 62 L |
