2001 Acura RL vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 2001 Acura RL is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (79 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Acura RL weights approximately 810 kg more than 1980 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, 2001 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (126 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort. 2001 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1980 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1980 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura RL | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Acura | Ford |
| Model | RL | Escort |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3472 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 40 L |
