1988 Dodge Spirit vs. 1989 Ford Escort
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Dodge Spirit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Dodge Spirit would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Dodge Spirit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Dodge Spirit (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Dodge Spirit should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Dodge Spirit weights approximately 229 kg more than 1989 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1988 Dodge Spirit (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (144 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1988 Dodge Spirit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Dodge Spirit | 1989 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Spirit | Escort |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1254 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2400 mm |
