1998 Ford Taurus vs. 1981 Ford Escort
To start off, 1998 Ford Taurus is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort.
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 Ford Taurus (264 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Taurus | 1981 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taurus | Escort |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
