1986 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Ford Ranger

To start off, 2009 Ford Ranger is newer by 23 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 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Ranger (207 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Ranger weights approximately 72 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Ford Ranger (323 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (138 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 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 2009 Ford Ranger
Make Ford Ford
Model Escort Ranger
Year Released 1986 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1595 cc 4015 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 106 HP 207 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 138 Nm 323 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 9.7:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 3 seats
Vehicle Weight 950 kg 1022 kg
Vehicle Length 4070 mm 5180 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1690 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 3200 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 54 L 74 L