1984 Ford Escort vs. 1957 Riley 1.5
To start off, 1984 Ford Escort is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Riley 1.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Riley 1.5 would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 Riley 1.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Ford Escort (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1957 Riley 1.5. (63 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1957 Riley 1.5.
Because 1957 Riley 1.5 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 1957 Riley 1.5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1957 Riley 1.5 (112 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Escort. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1957 Riley 1.5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Escort | 1957 Riley 1.5 | |
| Make | Ford | Riley |
| Model | Escort | 1.5 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2190 mm |
