1981 Austin Marina vs. 1996 Ford Escort
To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Escort (74 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1981 Austin Marina. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 200 kg more than 1981 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Austin Marina 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 1981 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Ford Escort (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Marina | 1996 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | Marina | Escort |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
