1981 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION is newer by 23 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 2,187 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn ION (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn ION weights approximately 296 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, 2004 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 2004 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Escort | ION |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2630 mm |
