1988 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Ford Focus
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1988 Ford Escort. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 150 kg more than 1988 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, both vehicles can yield 145 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Escort | 2008 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Focus |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2620 mm |
