1981 Ford Escort vs. 1974 Seat 1430
To start off, 1981 Ford Escort is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Seat 1430. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Seat 1430 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 70 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Escort weights approximately 24 kg more than 1974 Seat 1430.
Because 1974 Seat 1430 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 1974 Seat 1430. 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 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Seat 1430. (112 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Seat 1430.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 1974 Seat 1430 | |
| Make | Ford | Seat |
| Model | Escort | 1430 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1438 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2430 mm |
