1986 Ford Escort vs. 1981 Nissan Patrol
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Patrol. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Patrol would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Patrol is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Escort (132 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (94 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 995 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort.
Because 1981 Nissan Patrol is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Patrol will offer significantly more control. 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, 1981 Nissan Patrol (215 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (180 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Patrol will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1981 Nissan Patrol | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Escort | Patrol |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2980 mm |
