1986 Ford Escort vs. 2008 MG ZT
To start off, 2008 MG ZT is newer by 22 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 MG ZT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 MG ZT (256 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 MG ZT should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 MG ZT weights approximately 650 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 2008 MG ZT 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 2008 MG ZT. 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, 2008 MG ZT (410 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 MG ZT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2008 MG ZT | |
| Make | Ford | MG |
| Model | Escort | ZT |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 151 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
