1989 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2008 Smart Roadster is newer by 19 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 1,700 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Smart Roadster (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 2008 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Escort | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1700 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 35 L |
