1986 Ford Escort vs. 1979 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,940 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ford Fairlane (185 HP) has 107 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (78 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 505 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 1979 Ford Fairlane 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 1979 Ford Fairlane. 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, 1979 Ford Fairlane (344 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (127 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1979 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 4940 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 185 HP |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2950 mm |
