1989 Ford Escort vs. 1981 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,700 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 59 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
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, 1989 Ford Escort (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 1981 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Vauxhall |
| Model | Escort | Astra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1700 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
