1996 Ford Escort vs. 1989 Toyota Cressida

To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Toyota Cressida. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Toyota Cressida would be higher. At 2,954 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Toyota Cressida is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Toyota Cressida (123 HP) has 49 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Toyota Cressida should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Toyota Cressida weights approximately 497 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1989 Toyota Cressida 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 1989 Toyota Cressida. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1989 Toyota Cressida (142 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1989 Toyota Cressida will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 1989 Toyota Cressida has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Toyota Cressida will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Ford Escort 1989 Toyota Cressida
Make Ford Toyota
Model Escort Cressida
Year Released 1996 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1391 cc 2954 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 74 HP 123 HP
Torque 114 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 4400 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1577 kg
Vehicle Length 4300 mm 4700 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1440 mm