1986 Ford Escort vs. 1988 Volvo 245
To start off, 1988 Volvo 245 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volvo 245 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 245 (96 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 245 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort.
Because 1988 Volvo 245 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 Volvo 245. 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 Volvo 245 (158 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 245 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1988 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Escort | 245 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2660 mm |
