1986 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang is newer by 18 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (260 HP) has 185 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 668 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 2004 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 2004 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, 2004 Ford Mustang (411 Nm) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 260 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 411 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1518 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2630 mm |
