1986 Ford Escort vs. 1998 Opel Speedster
To start off, 1998 Opel Speedster is newer by 12 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Speedster (145 HP) has 70 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Speedster weights approximately 95 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 1998 Opel Speedster 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 1998 Opel Speedster. 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, 1998 Opel Speedster (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1998 Opel Speedster | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Escort | Speedster |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 145 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2340 mm |
