1980 Ford Escort vs. 2001 Ford TE-50
To start off, 2001 Ford TE-50 is newer by 21 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 4,940 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford TE-50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford TE-50 (295 HP) has 246 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford TE-50 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford TE-50 weights approximately 806 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 2001 Ford TE-50 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 2001 Ford TE-50. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Ford Escort, 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, 2001 Ford TE-50 (435 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2001 Ford TE-50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 2001 Ford TE-50 | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | TE-50 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1116 cc | 4940 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 295 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 435 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 68 L |
