1989 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Kia Forte
To start off, 2009 Kia Forte is newer by 20 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Forte (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
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, 2009 Kia Forte (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 2009 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Escort | Forte |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1700 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4481 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 52 L |
