1986 Ford Escort vs. 2006 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2006 Ford Ranger is newer by 20 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 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Ranger (148 HP) has 73 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Ranger weights approximately 792 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 2006 Ford Ranger 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 2006 Ford Ranger. 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, 2006 Ford Ranger (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2006 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Ranger |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 2983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1642 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3200 mm |
