1986 Ford Escort vs. 1974 Holden Torana
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Holden Torana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Holden Torana would be higher. At 4,143 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Holden Torana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Holden Torana (182 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Holden Torana should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Holden Torana weights approximately 300 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 1974 Holden Torana 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 1974 Holden Torana. 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, 1974 Holden Torana (356 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 Holden Torana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 1974 Holden Torana 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. 1974 Holden Torana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1974 Holden Torana | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Escort | Torana |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 4143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 356 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2590 mm |
