2002 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1985 Ford Orion

To start off, 2002 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Orion would be higher. At 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1985 Ford Orion. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 1259 kg more than 1985 Ford Orion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2002 Chevrolet SSR 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 2002 Chevrolet SSR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Ford Orion, 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, 2002 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 348 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Orion. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Orion. 2002 Chevrolet SSR has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Orion has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Orion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Chevrolet SSR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Chevrolet SSR 1985 Ford Orion
Make Chevrolet Ford
Model SSR Orion
Year Released 2002 1985
Body Type Pickup Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5316 cc 1297 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 296 HP 68 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 449 Nm 101 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2154 kg 895 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 2000 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1640 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2410 mm