1980 Ford Escort vs. 2002 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2002 Toyota MR2 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Toyota MR2 (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (79 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 715 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 2002 Toyota MR2 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 2002 Toyota MR2. 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, 2002 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (125 Nm). This means 2002 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 2002 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Escort | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 72 L |
