1986 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2003 Ford Mustang is newer by 17 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), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 352 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 667 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 2003 Ford Mustang 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 2003 Ford Mustang. 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, 2003 Ford Mustang (530 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 447 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2003 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1492 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 68 L |
