1986 Ford Escort vs. 1997 Panoz AIV
To start off, 1997 Panoz AIV is newer by 11 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Panoz AIV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Panoz AIV (302 HP) has 227 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Panoz AIV should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Panoz AIV weights approximately 285 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 1997 Panoz AIV 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 1997 Panoz AIV. 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, 1997 Panoz AIV (407 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Panoz AIV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1997 Panoz AIV | |
| Make | Ford | Panoz |
| Model | Escort | AIV |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 302 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 59 L |
