1986 Ford Escort vs. 2006 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2006 Smart Roadster 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 1,751 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart Roadster (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Escort weights approximately 25 kg more than 2006 Smart Roadster.
Because 2006 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 2006 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, both vehicles can yield 110 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2006 Smart Roadster has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Smart Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Escort | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 151 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 35 L |
