1986 Ford Escort vs. 1949 Mercury Roadster

To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Mercury Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Mercury Roadster would be higher. At 3,990 cc (8 cylinders), 1949 Mercury Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1949 Mercury Roadster (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1949 Mercury Roadster should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Mercury Roadster weights approximately 640 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1949 Mercury Roadster 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 1949 Mercury Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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. 1949 Mercury Roadster has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1949 Mercury Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 1949 Mercury Roadster
Make Ford Mercury
Model Escort Roadster
Year Released 1986 1949
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1751 cc 3990 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 59 HP 108 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 3800 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 910 kg 1550 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 5260 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2960 mm