1986 Ford Orion vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 1986 Ford Orion 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Orion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Orion (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Orion should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Orion weights approximately 55 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 1980 Ford Escort 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 1980 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Orion, 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 Orion (133 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Orion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort. 1986 Ford Orion has automatic transmission and 1980 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1980 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Ford Orion will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Orion | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Orion | Escort |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 939 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 45 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
