1986 Ford Escort vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chrysler 1609 (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 265 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 1978 Chrysler 1609 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 1978 Chrysler 1609. 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, 1978 Chrysler 1609 (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 1978 Chrysler 1609 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. 1978 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Ford | Chrysler |
| Model | Escort | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2670 mm |
