1980 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix (260 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 769 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 Pontiac Grand Prix (380 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 1980 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1980 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Escort | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1664 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 64 L |
