1985 Ford Escort vs. 1958 Studebaker Silver Hawk

To start off, 1985 Ford Escort is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Studebaker Silver Hawk. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Studebaker Silver Hawk would be higher. At 3,042 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Studebaker Silver Hawk is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Studebaker Silver Hawk (100 HP) has 51 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1958 Studebaker Silver Hawk should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Studebaker Silver Hawk weights approximately 566 kg more than 1985 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1958 Studebaker Silver Hawk 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 1958 Studebaker Silver Hawk. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1958 Studebaker Silver Hawk (206 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1958 Studebaker Silver Hawk will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort. 1958 Studebaker Silver Hawk has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1958 Studebaker Silver Hawk will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Ford Escort 1958 Studebaker Silver Hawk
Make Ford Studebaker
Model Escort Silver Hawk
Year Released 1985 1958
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1117 cc 3042 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 49 HP 100 HP
Torque 84 Nm 206 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 74 mm 76.2 mm
Engine Stroke Size 65 mm 111 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 7.8:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 790 kg 1356 kg
Vehicle Length 4040 mm 5190 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 3070 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 68 L