1984 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Saturn L
To start off, 2004 Saturn L is newer by 20 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1984 Ford Escort. (53 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn L weights approximately 450 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, 2004 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Escort. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Escort. 2004 Saturn L 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. 2004 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Escort | 2004 Saturn L | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Escort | L |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 94 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2630 mm |
