1980 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Ford Focus

To start off, 2012 Ford Focus is newer by 32 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Focus (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Focus weights approximately 449 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, 2012 Ford Focus, 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, 2012 Ford Focus (198 Nm @ 4450 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.

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