1981 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Suzuki XL7
To start off, 2009 Suzuki XL7 is newer by 28 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 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Suzuki XL7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Suzuki XL7 (252 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki XL7 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Suzuki XL7 weights approximately 738 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, 2009 Suzuki XL7 (330 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Suzuki XL7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 2009 Suzuki XL7 | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Escort | XL7 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3564 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1692 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2860 mm |
