1981 Audi 80 vs. 1988 Ford Escort

To start off, 1988 Ford Escort is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 80 would be higher. At 2,144 cc (5 cylinders), 1981 Audi 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Audi 80 (136 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1988 Ford Escort. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Audi 80 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Audi 80 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1988 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 Audi 80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Audi 80 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1981 Audi 80 (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Escort. (145 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1981 Audi 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Audi 80 1988 Ford Escort
Make Audi Ford
Model 80 Escort
Year Released 1981 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2144 cc 1859 cc
Engine Cylinders 5 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 136 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 176 Nm 145 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3400 RPM
Drive Type 4WD Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1190 kg 1025 kg
Vehicle Length 4390 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2400 mm