1986 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Ford Ka

To start off, 2012 Ford Ka 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 Ford Ka (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort.

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, 1986 Ford Escort (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Ka.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 2012 Ford Ka
Make Ford Ford
Model Escort Ka
Year Released 1986 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1751 cc 1297 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 68 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 106 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 74.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 75.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 21.5:1 10.2:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 3630 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2450 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 40 L