1981 Ford Escort vs. 1990 Ford Escort
To start off, 1990 Ford Escort is newer by 9 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 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Ford Escort (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Ford Escort weights approximately 141 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1990 Ford Escort (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 1990 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Escort |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2510 mm |
