1986 Ford Escort vs. 2013 Cadillac ATS

To start off, 2013 Cadillac ATS is newer by 27 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Cadillac ATS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Cadillac ATS (268 HP) has 193 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Cadillac ATS should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Cadillac ATS weights approximately 680 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 2013 Cadillac ATS 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 2013 Cadillac ATS. 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, 2013 Cadillac ATS (353 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Cadillac ATS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2013 Cadillac ATS 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. 2013 Cadillac ATS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 2013 Cadillac ATS
Make Ford Cadillac
Model Escort ATS
Year Released 1986 2013
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1392 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 75 HP 268 HP
Torque 109 Nm 353 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 5500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 77 mm 86 mm
Engine Stroke Size 74 mm 86 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 850 kg 1530 kg
Vehicle Length 4030 mm 4643 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1805 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1421 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2775 mm