1986 Ford Escort vs. 1996 Saturn SL
To start off, 1996 Saturn SL is newer by 10 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 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Saturn SL (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Saturn SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Saturn SL weights approximately 146 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Saturn SL (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1996 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Escort | SL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
