1999 Ford Escort vs. 1980 Triumph TR8
To start off, 1999 Ford Escort is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph TR8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph TR8 would be higher. At 3,523 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Triumph TR8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Triumph TR8 (138 HP) has 7 more horse power than 1999 Ford Escort. (131 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Triumph TR8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Escort weights approximately 309 kg more than 1980 Triumph TR8.
Because 1980 Triumph TR8 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 Triumph TR8. 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, 1980 Triumph TR8 (224 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Escort. (178 Nm). This means 1980 Triumph TR8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Escort. 1999 Ford Escort has automatic transmission and 1980 Triumph TR8 has manual transmission. 1980 Triumph TR8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Ford Escort will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Escort | 1980 Triumph TR8 | |
| Make | Ford | Triumph |
| Model | Escort | TR8 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.9 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1124 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2170 mm |
