1986 Ford Escort vs. 1971 Tatra T603
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,472 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Tatra T603 (104 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Tatra T603 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Tatra T603 weights approximately 560 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 1971 Tatra T603 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 1971 Tatra T603. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1971 Tatra T603 (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1971 Tatra T603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1971 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | Ford | Tatra |
| Model | Escort | T603 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2760 mm |
