1981 Ford Escort vs. 1997 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 1997 Toyota Corolla is newer by 16 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota Corolla (85 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota Corolla should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota Corolla weights approximately 96 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, both vehicles can yield 121 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 1997 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Escort | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2470 mm |
