1980 Ford Escort vs. 2001 Hyundai Matrix
To start off, 2001 Hyundai Matrix 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 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Hyundai Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Hyundai Matrix (104 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Hyundai Matrix should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Hyundai Matrix weights approximately 355 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, 2001 Hyundai Matrix, 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 Hyundai Matrix (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Hyundai Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 2001 Hyundai Matrix | |
| Make | Ford | Hyundai |
| Model | Escort | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 939 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
