1981 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2012 Ford Fiesta is newer by 31 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Fiesta (120 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 197 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, 2012 Ford Fiesta (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 2012 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1151 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4067 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1697 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2489 mm |
