1996 Ford Escort vs. 1981 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Escort (74 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 240 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 Ford Escort (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 1981 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Vauxhall |
| Model | Escort | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1340 mm |
