1989 Ford Escort vs. 1981 Nissan Leopard
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Leopard. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Leopard would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Leopard is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Nissan Leopard (134 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Leopard should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
Because 1981 Nissan Leopard 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 1981 Nissan Leopard. 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, 1981 Nissan Leopard (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Leopard will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 1981 Nissan Leopard | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Escort | Leopard |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1700 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2630 mm |
