1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 325 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. 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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Cavalier | Escort |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 64.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 48 L |
