1983 Ford Escort vs. 1978 Triumph Dolomite
To start off, 1983 Ford Escort is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Triumph Dolomite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Triumph Dolomite would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Ford Escort (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Dolomite. (57 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Dolomite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Escort weights approximately 8 kg more than 1978 Triumph Dolomite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Triumph Dolomite 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 1978 Triumph Dolomite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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 Escort (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Dolomite. (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Dolomite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Escort | 1978 Triumph Dolomite | |
| Make | Ford | Triumph |
| Model | Escort | Dolomite |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 942 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2460 mm |
