1980 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Ford Focus
To start off, 2003 Ford Focus is newer by 23 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Focus (108 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Focus weights approximately 305 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, 2003 Ford Focus (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 2003 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Focus |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
