1986 Ford Escort vs. 2002 Saturn L
To start off, 2002 Saturn L is newer by 16 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Saturn L weights approximately 428 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, 2002 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2002 Saturn L | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Escort | L |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
