1986 Ford Escort vs. 1988 Ford Fairlane

To start off, 1988 Ford Fairlane is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 4,089 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Fairlane (138 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 720 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 1988 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 1988 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, 1988 Ford Fairlane (304 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 1988 Ford Fairlane 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. 1988 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications: