1984 Ford Escort vs. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1984 Ford Escort. (53 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 321 kg more than 1984 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier (184 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Escort. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Escort. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1984 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1984 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Escort | 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Escort | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
