1981 Ford Escort vs. 1985 Volvo 245
To start off, 1985 Volvo 245 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volvo 245 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volvo 245 (96 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volvo 245 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort.
Because 1985 Volvo 245 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 1985 Volvo 245. 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, 1985 Volvo 245 (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Volvo 245 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 1985 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Escort | 245 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2660 mm |
