1985 Ford Escort vs. 2012 GMC Terrain

To start off, 2012 GMC Terrain is newer by 27 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 GMC Terrain is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Terrain (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (132 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Terrain should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Terrain weights approximately 674 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, 2012 GMC Terrain (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (180 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Terrain will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort. 2012 GMC Terrain 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. 2012 GMC Terrain will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Ford Escort 2012 GMC Terrain
Make Ford GMC
Model Escort Terrain
Year Released 1985 2012
Body Type Hatchback Crossover
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1597 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 132 HP 182 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 6700 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 233 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 4900 RPM
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1754 kg
Vehicle Length 4070 mm 4707 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1849 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1684 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2858 mm