1999 Ford Escort vs. 1980 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1999 Ford Escort is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Escort (131 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 16 kg more than 1999 Ford Escort.
Because 1980 Nissan Laurel 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 1980 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Ford Escort (178 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Nissan Laurel. (148 Nm). This means 1999 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Escort | 1980 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Escort | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1124 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2680 mm |
