1985 Ford Escort vs. 1981 Triumph TR7
To start off, 1985 Ford Escort is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Triumph TR7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Triumph TR7 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Triumph TR7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Escort (132 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1981 Triumph TR7. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1981 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Ford Escort weights approximately 35 kg more than 1981 Triumph TR7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Triumph TR7 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 1981 Triumph TR7. 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, 1985 Ford Escort (180 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Triumph TR7. (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Triumph TR7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 1981 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Ford | Triumph |
| Model | Escort | TR7 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2170 mm |
