1986 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2009 Smart ForTwo 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 1,751 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Smart ForTwo (83 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort.
Because 2009 Smart ForTwo 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 Smart ForTwo. 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 Smart ForTwo (121 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2009 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Escort | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 81.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 151 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 2700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 1870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 33 L |
