1989 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Pontiac GTO
To start off, 2003 Pontiac GTO is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Escort would be higher. At 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Pontiac GTO is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Pontiac GTO (350 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 291 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Pontiac GTO should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
Because 2003 Pontiac GTO 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 2003 Pontiac GTO. 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, 2003 Pontiac GTO (495 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 386 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Pontiac GTO will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 2003 Pontiac GTO | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Escort | GTO |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1700 cc | 5665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 495 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
