1980 Ford Escort vs. 2002 Saturn SC
To start off, 2002 Saturn SC 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 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Saturn SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Saturn SC (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Saturn SC should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Saturn SC weights approximately 220 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 Saturn SC (154 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Saturn SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 2002 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Escort | SC |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
