1998 Buick Signia vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1998 Buick Signia is newer by 12 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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Signia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Buick Signia (238 HP) has 163 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Buick Signia should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Signia weights approximately 845 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, 1998 Buick Signia (387 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Signia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 1998 Buick Signia has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Buick Signia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Buick Signia | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Buick | Ford |
| Model | Signia | Escort |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2500 mm |
