1986 Ford Escort vs. 2002 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2002 Smart ForTwo 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 1,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Escort (75 HP) has 35 more horse power than 2002 Smart ForTwo. (40 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 2002 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Escort weights approximately 45 kg more than 2002 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Smart ForTwo 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 2002 Smart ForTwo. 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, 1986 Ford Escort (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Smart ForTwo. (100 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2002 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Escort | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 40 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 65.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 1820 mm |
