1997 Fiat Barchetta vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 1997 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Fiat Barchetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Fiat Barchetta (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (79 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Fiat Barchetta should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Fiat Barchetta weights approximately 165 kg more than 1980 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 Fiat Barchetta (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Fiat Barchetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Fiat Barchetta | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | Barchetta | Escort |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2400 mm |
