1986 Ford Escort vs. 1980 Holden Statesman

To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,042 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Holden Statesman (169 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Holden Statesman weights approximately 812 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 1980 Holden Statesman 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 1980 Holden Statesman. 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, 1980 Holden Statesman (361 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1980 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 1980 Holden Statesman 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. 1980 Holden Statesman will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 1980 Holden Statesman
Make Ford Holden
Model Escort Statesman
Year Released 1986 1980
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1751 cc 5042 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 169 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 361 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2800 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 910 kg 1722 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 5160 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1910 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2900 mm