1980 Ford Escort vs. 2005 Suzuki Forenza

To start off, 2005 Suzuki Forenza is newer by 25 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Suzuki Forenza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Suzuki Forenza (126 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Suzuki Forenza should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Suzuki Forenza weights approximately 437 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, 2005 Suzuki Forenza, 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, 2005 Suzuki Forenza (178 Nm) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (60 Nm). This means 2005 Suzuki Forenza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Ford Escort 2005 Suzuki Forenza
Make Ford Suzuki
Model Escort Forenza
Year Released 1980 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 939 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 45 HP 126 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 60 Nm 178 Nm
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 875 kg 1312 kg
Vehicle Length 3980 mm 4570 mm
Vehicle Width 1600 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2490 mm