1986 Ford Orion vs. 2003 Ford Model U
To start off, 2003 Ford Model U is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Orion would be higher. At 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Model U is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Model U (149 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1986 Ford Orion. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Model U should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Orion.
Because 2003 Ford Model U is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Ford Orion. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Model U will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Ford Model U (213 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Orion. (137 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Model U will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Orion. 2003 Ford Model U has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Orion has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Orion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Model U will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Orion | 2003 Ford Model U | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Orion | Model U |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1660 mm |
