1986 Ford Escort vs. 1999 Pontiac GTO

To start off, 1999 Pontiac GTO is newer by 13 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 2,398 cc, 1999 Pontiac GTO is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Pontiac GTO (144 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac GTO should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Pontiac GTO weights approximately 289 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 1999 Pontiac GTO 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 1999 Pontiac GTO. 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, 1999 Pontiac GTO (203 Nm) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm). This means 1999 Pontiac GTO will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 1999 Pontiac GTO 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. 1999 Pontiac GTO will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 1999 Pontiac GTO
Make Ford Pontiac
Model Escort GTO
Year Released 1986 1999
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1751 cc 2398 cc
Horse Power 59 HP 144 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 203 Nm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 910 kg 1199 kg
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2570 mm