1980 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier is newer by 29 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 2,486 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (152 HP) has 103 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 670 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 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 2009 Nissan Frontier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Ford Escort, 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, 2009 Nissan Frontier (232 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 2009 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Escort | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1116 cc | 2486 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 152 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |
