1986 Ford Escort vs. 1972 Chrysler Centura
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Chrysler Centura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Chrysler Centura (118 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Chrysler Centura should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Chrysler Centura weights approximately 245 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 1972 Chrysler Centura 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 1972 Chrysler Centura. 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, 1972 Chrysler Centura (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1972 Chrysler Centura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 1972 Chrysler Centura 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. 1972 Chrysler Centura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1972 Chrysler Centura | |
| Make | Ford | Chrysler |
| Model | Escort | Centura |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2680 mm |
