1986 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2003 Smart Roadster 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 1,115 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Smart Roadster (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Smart Roadster weights approximately 15 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 Smart Roadster 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 Smart Roadster. 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 Smart Roadster (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2003 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Escort | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 180 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 | 870 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2370 mm |
