1988 Ford Escort vs. 1973 Toyota Corolla

To start off, 1988 Ford Escort is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Escort (89 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1973 Toyota Corolla. (62 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1973 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Escort weights approximately 205 kg more than 1973 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1973 Toyota Corolla 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 1973 Toyota Corolla. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Ford Escort (145 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Toyota Corolla. (94 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Toyota Corolla.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Ford Escort 1973 Toyota Corolla
Make Ford Toyota
Model Escort Corolla
Year Released 1988 1973
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1859 cc 1166 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 89 HP 62 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 6600 RPM
Torque 145 Nm 94 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 4200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1025 kg 820 kg
Vehicle Length 4300 mm 4010 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1510 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2400 mm 2340 mm