1982 Ford Escort vs. 1983 Ford Mustang

To start off, 1983 Ford Mustang is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Ford Mustang (88 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1982 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Mustang weights approximately 235 kg more than 1982 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1983 Ford Mustang 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 1983 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Ford Escort, 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, 1983 Ford Mustang (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1982 Ford Escort 1983 Ford Mustang
Make Ford Ford
Model Escort Mustang
Year Released 1982 1983
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 2294 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 70 HP 88 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 121 Nm 161 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87.7 mm 96 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 79.5 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 950 kg 1185 kg
Vehicle Length 4170 mm 4560 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2400 mm 2560 mm