1981 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Toyota Yaris
To start off, 2009 Toyota Yaris 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Yaris (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Yaris should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Yaris weights approximately 376 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 Toyota Yaris (140 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Yaris will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 2009 Toyota Yaris | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Escort | Yaris |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2470 mm |
