1986 Ford Mustang vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 1986 Ford Mustang is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Mustang (88 HP) has 39 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Mustang weights approximately 325 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Ford Mustang 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 1986 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1986 Ford Mustang (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Mustang | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mustang | Escort |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2294 cc | 1116 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 65 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2410 mm |
