1989 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2012 Dodge Ram is newer by 23 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Ram (212 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
Because 2012 Dodge Ram 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 2012 Dodge Ram. 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, 2012 Dodge Ram (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 2012 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Ford | Dodge |
| Model | Escort | Ram |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 5320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 98 L |
