1986 Ford Escort vs. 1974 Opel Manta
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Opel Manta would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Escort (61 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1974 Opel Manta. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Manta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Opel Manta weights approximately 40 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort.
Because 1974 Opel Manta 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 Opel Manta. 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, 1986 Ford Escort (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Manta. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Manta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1974 Opel Manta | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Escort | Manta |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2440 mm |
