1980 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara (93 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 400 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 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Escort | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 30 L |
