1980 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2004 Ford Fiesta is newer by 24 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Fiesta (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 213 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, 2004 Ford Fiesta (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 2004 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 184 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1108 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 45 L |
