1981 Ford Escort vs. 1999 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 1999 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 18 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 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (225 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 444 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, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (342 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 1999 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Ford | Saab |
| Model | Escort | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 342 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2610 mm |
