2004 Ford Ranger vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 2004 Ford Ranger is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Ranger (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Ranger weights approximately 732 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Ranger 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 2004 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2004 Ford Ranger (251 Nm) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ranger | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ranger | Escort |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1642 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 45 L |
