1985 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 19 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Escort (132 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 135 kg more than 1985 Ford Escort.
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 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (180 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier 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. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Escort | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
