1981 Ford Escort vs. 1958 Ford Popular
To start off, 1981 Ford Escort is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Ford Popular would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Escort (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1958 Ford Popular. (26 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1958 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Escort weights approximately 219 kg more than 1958 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Ford Popular 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 1958 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1981 Ford Escort (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Ford Popular. (63 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Ford Popular.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Escort | 1958 Ford Popular | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Escort | Popular |
Year Released | 1981 | 1958 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1171 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 26 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 121 Nm | 63 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 735 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2300 mm |