1986 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 26 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (138 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 497 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (200 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Escort | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 59 L |
