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 (122 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 63 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 395 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 (154 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 44 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. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 122 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 154 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 79 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 81.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 21.5:1 11:00
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Top Speed 151 km/hour 190 km/hour
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 910 kg 1305 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 4510 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1797 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1476 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2685 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 59 L