1989 Ford Escort vs. 1979 Pontiac Trans Am
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Trans Am would be higher. At 6,555 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (220 HP) has 161 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
Because 1979 Pontiac Trans Am 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 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. 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, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (434 Nm) has 325 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm). This means 1979 Pontiac Trans Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 1979 Pontiac Trans Am | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Escort | Trans Am |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1700 cc | 6555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 220 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2750 mm |
