1985 Ford Escort vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 1985 Ford Escort is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 1,270 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Cherry is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Nissan Cherry (59 HP) has 10 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Cherry should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Cherry weights approximately 35 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.
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, 1981 Nissan Cherry (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Cherry will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Escort | Cherry |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 1270 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2400 mm |
