1989 Ford Escort vs. 1978 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,978 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Opel Rekord (100 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
Because 1978 Opel Rekord 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 1978 Opel Rekord. 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, 1978 Opel Rekord (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Opel Rekord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 1978 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Escort | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1700 cc | 1978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
