1985 Ford Escort vs. 1997 Honda Prelude
To start off, 1997 Honda Prelude is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,157 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Honda Prelude is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda Prelude (200 HP) has 151 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda Prelude should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda Prelude weights approximately 500 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, 1997 Honda Prelude (219 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1997 Honda Prelude will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort. 1997 Honda Prelude 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. 1997 Honda Prelude will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 1997 Honda Prelude | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Escort | Prelude |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 2157 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
