1980 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 2004 Oldsmobile Alero 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 3,343 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Oldsmobile Alero (170 HP) has 127 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (43 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Oldsmobile Alero should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 514 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 1980 Ford Escort 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 1980 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Oldsmobile Alero, 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, 2004 Oldsmobile Alero (271 Nm) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (71 Nm). This means 2004 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 2004 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Escort | Alero |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 3343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 53.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 903 kg | 1417 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 53 L |
