1997 Ford Mustang vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1997 Ford Mustang 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 3,795 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Mustang (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Mustang weights approximately 480 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.
Because 1997 Ford Mustang 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 1997 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1997 Ford Mustang (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Mustang | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mustang | Escort |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3795 cc | 1751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
