1982 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander

To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander is newer by 27 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (266 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1982 Ford Escort. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Escort.

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, 2009 Toyota Highlander (249 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (137 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Escort. 2009 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 1982 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1982 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1982 Ford Escort 2009 Toyota Highlander
Make Ford Toyota
Model Escort Highlander
Year Released 1982 2009
Body Type Hatchback SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1597 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 103 HP 266 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 137 Nm 249 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 4700 RPM
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 4060 mm 4790 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1920 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1740 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2610 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 40 L 73 L