1986 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Chevrolet Express

To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Express 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 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Express (195 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1321 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 2012 Chevrolet Express 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 2012 Chevrolet Express. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Express (352 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2012 Chevrolet Express 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 Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 2012 Chevrolet Express
Make Ford Chevrolet
Model Escort Express
Year Released 1986 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1751 cc 4300 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 59 HP 195 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 352 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2800 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 4-speed automatic
Vehicle Weight 910 kg 2231 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 5692 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 2012 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 2126 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 3429 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 117 L