1980 Ford Escort vs. 2002 Holden Astra
To start off, 2002 Holden Astra is newer by 22 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Holden Astra (120 HP) has 71 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Holden Astra weights approximately 290 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, 2002 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2002 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort. 2002 Holden Astra 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. 2002 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 2002 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Escort | Astra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1116 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 120 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
