1981 Ford Escort vs. 2013 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 32 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Impala (296 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 724 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, 2013 Chevrolet Impala (355 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 2013 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Escort | Impala |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1678 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1851 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2807 mm |
