1989 Ford Escort vs. 2005 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2005 Smart Roadster is newer by 16 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 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Smart Roadster (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Escort weights approximately 42 kg more than 2005 Smart Roadster.
Because 2005 Smart Roadster 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 2005 Smart Roadster. 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, both vehicles can yield 110 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 2005 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Escort | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 888 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 35 L |
