1989 Ford Escort vs. 1974 Rover 3.5
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Rover 3.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Rover 3.5 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Rover 3.5 (149 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Rover 3.5 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
Because 1974 Rover 3.5 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 1974 Rover 3.5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1974 Rover 3.5 (276 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 Rover 3.5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 1974 Rover 3.5 | |
| Make | Ford | Rover |
| Model | Escort | 3.5 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1700 cc | 3532 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 276 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2820 mm |
