2002 Dodge Stratus vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 2002 Dodge Stratus is newer by 22 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Stratus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Stratus (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (79 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Stratus should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Stratus weights approximately 485 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, 2002 Dodge Stratus (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Stratus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort. 2002 Dodge Stratus 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. 2002 Dodge Stratus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Stratus | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Stratus | Escort |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 40 L |
