1986 Ford Escort vs. 2003 MG TF

To start off, 2003 MG TF 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 MG TF is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 MG TF (158 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 MG TF should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 MG TF weights approximately 280 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 MG TF 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 MG TF. 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 MG TF (174 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 MG TF will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 2003 MG TF
Make Ford MG
Model Escort TF
Year Released 1986 2003
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 1751 cc 1796 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6900 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 174 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 4700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 89.3 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 21.5:1 10.5:1
Top Speed 151 km/hour 220 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 910 kg 1190 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1270 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2380 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 50 L