1980 Ford Escort vs. 2010 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2010 Nissan Xterra is newer by 30 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Nissan Xterra (261 HP) has 212 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 1024 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 2010 Nissan Xterra 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 2010 Nissan Xterra. 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, 2010 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2010 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 2010 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Escort | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1116 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 261 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1884 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4539 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1902 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |
