1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2000 Ford Escort
To start off, 2000 Ford Escort is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Ford Escort (128 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Ford Escort weights approximately 324 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 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, 2000 Ford Escort (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2000 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2000 Ford Escort has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Ford Escort will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2000 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Escort |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1124 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 48 L |
