1981 Nissan Leopard vs. 2011 Ford Escape
To start off, 2011 Ford Escape is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Leopard. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Leopard would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Escape (177 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Leopard. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Escape weights approximately 470 kg more than 1981 Nissan Leopard. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Leopard is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 Nissan Leopard. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Escape, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 Ford Escape (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Leopard.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Leopard | 2011 Ford Escape | |
| Make | Nissan | Ford |
| Model | Leopard | Escape |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1664 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4437 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2619 mm |
